Syphilitic peritonitis

This code represents inflammation of the peritoneum, the membrane lining the abdominal cavity, specifically caused by Treponema pallidum, the bacterium responsible for syphilis. It indicates a manifestation of syphilis affecting the abdominal organs, often occurring in the secondary or tertiary stages of the disease.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of peritonitis directly attributed to syphilis. This typically requires a confirmed syphilis diagnosis alongside clinical signs and symptoms of peritoneal inflammation, and often a positive serological test for syphilis.

• Ensure documentation specifies "syphilitic" peritonitis; general peritonitis codes are not appropriate.
• Code an underlying or co-existing stage of syphilis (e.g., secondary or tertiary) if documented, following sequencing guidelines.
• Distinguish from peritonitis due to other infectious agents or non-infectious causes.