Late congenital syphilitic arthropathy

This code signifies joint disease that develops as a long-term consequence of congenital syphilis, typically manifesting years after birth. It represents a chronic inflammatory or degenerative joint condition directly attributable to untreated or inadequately treated syphilis acquired in utero.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of arthropathy stemming from late congenital syphilis. This diagnosis is supported by a history of congenital syphilis and clinical findings consistent with chronic joint involvement, such as Clutton's joints (bilateral, symmetrical, painless hydrarthrosis of the knees).

• Ensure documentation specifies "late" congenital syphilis and clearly links the arthropathy to this etiology.
• Do not confuse with arthropathy due to acquired syphilis (A52.75) or other forms of infectious arthritis.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis if the arthropathy is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it's a co-morbidity.