ICD-10 Code A50.1 – Early congenital syphilis, latent (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A50.1 – Early congenital syphilis, latent
What it is
A50.1 identifies early congenital syphilis found in an infant or child without active symptoms at the time of documentation. It indicates infection acquired before birth, with latent disease rather than obvious clinical illness.
Clinical signs
Clinical features may be absent, because latent infection has no clear symptoms. Diagnosis is usually based on maternal history, neonatal evaluation, and serologic or other documented evidence of congenital infection.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record specifically states early congenital syphilis as latent or asymptomatic. It fits newborn or infant encounters where congenital infection is documented, but no active manifestations are described. Check documentation if the note only says “syphilis exposure” or “rule out syphilis.”
Do not use for
Do not use A50.1 for acquired syphilis in older patients or for congenital syphilis with active signs such as rash or bone findings. If the chart documents another congenital syphilis stage, code that stage instead.
Coding tip
Confirm that the provider documents congenital infection and latent status; do not infer A50.1 from maternal history alone.