Late syphilitic neuropathy

This code represents neurological damage occurring in the late stages of syphilis infection, specifically affecting the peripheral or central nervous system. It encompasses conditions such as tabes dorsalis, general paresis, and other forms of neurosyphilis manifesting years after the initial infection. These manifestations result from chronic inflammation and degeneration of nervous tissue due to Treponema pallidum.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of neuropathy directly attributable to late-stage syphilis. This typically applies to patients presenting with symptoms like ataxia, sensory disturbances, dementia, or psychiatric changes, with a confirmed history of syphilis and evidence of neurological involvement. Supporting documentation includes positive serological tests for syphilis (e.g., VDRL, RPR, FTA-ABS), CSF analysis, and neurological examination findings.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "late" syphilis and clearly links the neuropathy to the syphilitic infection.
• Do not confuse with congenital syphilis or early neurosyphilis; those have distinct codes.
• Code any associated mental or behavioral disorders (e.g., F02.80, F02.81) as secondary diagnoses if documented as a manifestation of the neurosyphilis.