Syphilis of bone and joint

This diagnosis code signifies a late-stage manifestation of syphilis affecting the skeletal system, specifically the bones and/or joints. It encompasses conditions such as syphilitic osteitis, periostitis, or arthritis, which result from chronic infection with Treponema pallidum.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of syphilis with involvement of bone or joint structures. This typically occurs in tertiary syphilis and may be supported by positive serological tests for syphilis, imaging findings (e.g., X-rays, MRI) showing characteristic bone lesions, and clinical signs of skeletal inflammation or destruction.

• Ensure documentation specifies "syphilis" as the etiology of the bone/joint condition, not just a general infection.
• Distinguish from congenital syphilis manifestations, which are coded differently.
• Code any associated bone or joint conditions (e.g., osteomyelitis, arthritis) as secondary diagnoses if they are distinct and further specified.