A51.2

What This Code Means

This code describes syphilis in its earliest stage when it appears on parts of the body other than the genitals, typically presenting as a single painless sore (chancre) at the site where the infection entered the body. Primary syphilis is the first stage of this sexually transmitted infection and is highly contagious.

Coding Tips

• •Use this code only for primary syphilis (first stage); do not use for secondary, tertiary, or latent syphilis which have different codes
• •Specify the anatomical site of the chancre when documented (e.g., lip, finger, rectum) to ensure accurate coding and clinical tracking