ICD-10 Code A50.44 – Late congenital syphilitic optic nerve atrophy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A50.44 – Late congenital syphilitic optic nerve atrophy
What it is
A50.44 identifies optic nerve atrophy caused by late congenital syphilis. Use it when the record shows vision loss or optic nerve degeneration linked to congenital syphilitic infection.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include reduced visual acuity, optic disc pallor, and evidence of optic nerve damage. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for confirmation of congenital syphilitic origin.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents late congenital syphilis with optic nerve atrophy, or clearly links optic atrophy to congenital syphilis. It may appear in ophthalmology, neurology, or infectious disease records. Check documentation if the cause is not explicitly stated.
Do not use for
Do not use it for optic atrophy from trauma, glaucoma, or other non-syphilitic causes. Do not assign it when congenital syphilis is not documented or the etiology remains uncertain.
Coding tip
Code the underlying congenital syphilis manifestation only when the chart clearly connects the optic nerve atrophy to that condition.