Syphilis complicating pregnancy, third trimester

This code signifies a maternal diagnosis of syphilis occurring during the third trimester of pregnancy. It indicates that the syphilitic infection is considered a complication of the current gestation, potentially impacting both the mother and the fetus.

Apply this code when a pregnant patient in her third trimester is diagnosed with syphilis. Documentation should clearly state the presence of syphilis and confirm the gestational age or trimester. This code is used regardless of whether the syphilis is newly diagnosed or a pre-existing condition.

• Always sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when the syphilis is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis when it complicates another primary condition.
• Ensure the medical record explicitly states "third trimester" or provides gestational weeks (e.g., 28 weeks and beyond) to support this specific trimester code.
• Do not confuse with codes for congenital syphilis in the newborn; this code is for the pregnant mother.