A50.41

What This Code Means

This is a serious brain infection caused by syphilis that was passed from mother to child before birth and develops later in childhood or adulthood. The infection causes inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Coding Tips

• •This code is used only for late manifestations of congenital syphilis (typically after age 2 years); ensure documentation confirms the syphilis was acquired congenitally, not through other means
• •Verify that meningitis is specifically documented as the manifestation; if other late congenital syphilis complications are present, additional codes may be needed