A51.43

What This Code Means

This is an eye infection or inflammation caused by secondary syphilis, which occurs in the second stage of untreated syphilis infection. The condition affects the eyes and vision and develops weeks to months after the initial syphilis infection.

Coding Tips

• •This code should only be used when syphilis has progressed to the secondary stage with documented eye involvement; verify that the patient has confirmed secondary syphilis diagnosis
• •This code is part of a combination concept and should not be used with a separate code for secondary syphilis (A51.-); ensure documentation specifies the ocular manifestation to support medical necessity