ICD-10 Code A50.0 – Early congenital syphilis, symptomatic (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A50.0 – Early congenital syphilis, symptomatic
What it is
A50.0 identifies symptomatic congenital syphilis diagnosed in the early period after birth. Use it when documentation shows the infant has clinical disease caused by maternal transmission of Treponema pallidum.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly reported findings include rash, hepatosplenomegaly, snuffles, anemia, jaundice, or bone involvement in an infant with confirmed or strongly suspected congenital infection.
When to use this code
Use A50.0 when the record clearly states early congenital syphilis with symptoms present in the newborn or young infant. It is appropriate when the clinician documents active disease rather than exposure alone or a later-stage congenital manifestation.
Choose this code only when the symptoms are attributable to congenital syphilis and the diagnosis is supported in the chart. Check documentation if the note says congenital syphilis without specifying symptomatic early disease.
Do not use for
Do not use A50.0 for asymptomatic congenital syphilis, latent infection, or maternal syphilis without infant disease. Check documentation if the chart describes a different stage or an uncertain diagnosis.
Coding tip
Verify that the provider documents both congenital syphilis and symptoms, since “congenital syphilis” alone may not support A50.0.