A52.01
BillableSyphilitic aneurysm of aorta
This code does not map to an HCC category in any model (V28, V24, ESRD, RxHCC).
What This Code Means
This is a serious complication of syphilis where the bacteria damages the aorta (the main artery leaving the heart), causing it to weaken and bulge outward like a balloon. This condition can be life-threatening if the weakened area ruptures.
Coding Tips
- •This code requires documentation of both the syphilis diagnosis and confirmation that an aortic aneurysm is present; verify the aneurysm is specifically attributed to syphilis rather than other causes
- •This is a late manifestation of syphilis, so ensure the medical record documents the syphilitic origin and consider whether additional codes for the aneurysm complications (such as rupture) should be assigned
Code Hierarchy
└A52Late syphilis└A52.0Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular syphilis└A52.01Syphilitic aneurysm of aorta
└A52.01Syphilitic aneurysm of aorta