A52.74
Syphilis of liver and other viscera
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Inclusion Terms
- Late syphilitic peritonitis
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Syphilis of the liver and other viscera is a form of late-stage syphilis where the infection affects internal organs such as the liver and other nearby structures. This condition results from untreated or inadequately treated syphilis, leading to inflammation and damage in these internal organs. It is classified under ICD-10 code A52.74 and is sometimes associated with late syphilitic peritonitis, which involves inflammation of the peritoneum — the membrane lining the abdominal cavity.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Progression of untreated syphilis infection Latency of the disease over several years without treatment Spread of *Treponema pallidum* bacteria from initial site to internal organs via bloodstream Inadequate or delayed antibiotic treatment for primary or secondary syphilis
Key Symptoms: Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort Swelling or tenderness in the abdomen Jaundice or yellowing of the skin and eyes (in cases involving liver damage) Unexplained weight loss Fever and fatigue Signs of organ dysfunction such as irregular liver function tests Peritoneal symptoms including abdominal tenderness and distension if associated with peritonitis
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical assessment, laboratory testing, and imaging studies: - Serologic tests for syphilis, including non-treponemal tests (e.g., VDRL, RPR) and treponemal tests (e.g., FTA-ABS, TPPA) - Liver function tests to assess hepatic involvement - Imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans to visualize organ damage or inflammation - Liver biopsy in some cases to confirm tissue involvement and rule out other causes of liver pathology - Additional tests for differential diagnosis and to evaluate the extent of organ damage
Treatment Protocols: Treatment focuses on eradicating the *Treponema pallidum* bacteria with antibiotics, primarily penicillin. The approach may include: - Intravenous or intramuscular penicillin G, depending on the severity and stage of the disease - Monitoring of serologic response to therapy - Supportive care to manage symptoms and organ function - Regular follow-up testing to ensure treatment efficacy - Addressing complications such as organ damage or secondary infections as needed
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is A52.74 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, A52.74 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report A52.74?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Syphilis of liver and other viscera and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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