Syphilis, unspecified

This code represents a diagnosis of syphilis when the specific stage of the infection (e.g., primary, secondary, latent) is not documented or cannot be determined. It indicates the presence of the systemic sexually transmitted infection caused by Treponema pallidum. This diagnosis implies the patient has tested positive for syphilis but further details are lacking.

Use this code when the medical record clearly indicates a diagnosis of syphilis, but there is no further specification of the stage of the disease. This is appropriate when laboratory tests confirm syphilis (e.g., positive RPR/VDRL and FTA-ABS/TP-PA) but the provider's documentation simply states "syphilis" without additional detail. Avoid using this code if a more specific stage of syphilis is documented.

• Always query the provider for a more specific stage of syphilis if possible, as this code is less specific.
• Do not use this code for congenital syphilis or syphilis in infants under two years of age, as more specific codes exist.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is a co-morbidity.