A52.12

What This Code Means

This code describes syphilis that has spread to the brain and spinal cord, causing inflammation and damage to these structures, but is not the typical form of neurosyphilis. It represents a serious stage of untreated syphilis where the infection has invaded the central nervous system.

Coding Tips

• •This code is used for cerebrospinal syphilis presentations other than general paresis or tabes dorsalis; verify the clinical documentation specifies the type of CNS involvement
• •Ensure the syphilis stage is confirmed as secondary or tertiary before coding; this code requires evidence of CNS involvement documented in the medical record