Gummata and ulcers due to yaws

This code describes the late-stage manifestations of yaws, a chronic tropical infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum pertenue. Specifically, it refers to the presence of gummata (soft, non-cancerous growths) and ulcerative lesions on the skin, bones, or other tissues, which are characteristic of tertiary yaws. These lesions can be disfiguring and destructive if left untreated.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of yaws with specific mention of gummata or ulcers as presenting symptoms. This typically applies to patients residing in or having a history of travel to endemic regions. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing the characteristic lesions, patient history, and potentially serological test results confirming yaws.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "gummata" or "ulcers" in the context of yaws; avoid using for general yaws without these specific manifestations.
• Differentiate from other treponemal infections like syphilis, which can also cause gummata, by confirming the yaws diagnosis.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis if the gummata and ulcers are the main reason for the encounter.