Late congenital syphilis, unspecified

This code signifies the presence of congenital syphilis that manifests after two years of age, or when the exact age of onset is unknown but the infection was acquired in utero. It encompasses the chronic, often multi-systemic sequelae of untreated or inadequately treated prenatal syphilis.

Use this code for patients diagnosed with congenital syphilis where the clinical manifestations appear in later childhood or adulthood, and the specific type (e.g., cardiovascular, neurosyphilis) is not documented. This code is appropriate when the medical record clearly indicates a history of congenital syphilis without further specification of its late-stage presentation.

• Do not use this code if the specific late manifestation (e.g., interstitial keratitis, Hutchinson's teeth, neurosyphilis) is documented; instead, code to the specific manifestation.
• Distinguish carefully from acquired syphilis, as the transmission route is critical for correct coding.
• Ensure documentation supports a congenital origin, even if the onset of symptoms is delayed.