A53
Non-Billable

Other and unspecified syphilis

Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code

What is Other and unspecified syphilis?

ICD-10-CM A53 is the diagnosis code for Other and unspecified syphilis. This code falls under the section "Infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission" within Chapter 1 — Certain infectious and parasitic diseases (A00-B99). It is a non-billable/non-specific ICD-10-CM code that should not be used for reimbursement. A more specific sub-code is required for billing. Medical coders and healthcare providers use this code to document and classify diagnoses in electronic health records, insurance claims, and clinical databases.

Coding Guidelines for A53

Always refer to the official ICD-10-CM Tabular List for complete coding guidelines. Ensure documentation supports the specificity of the code selected. When in doubt, consult a certified medical coder or the latest CMS guidelines.

ICD-10-CM Code Hierarchy

Understanding where A53 sits in the ICD-10-CM classification helps ensure proper coding:

Sub-Codes 2 entries
A53.0Latent syphilis, unspecified as early or lateBillableA53.9Syphilis, unspecifiedBillable
Related Codes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is A53 a billable ICD-10-CM code?

No, A53 is a non-billable/non-specific code. You should use a more specific sub-code for billing and reimbursement.

What does A53 mean?

A53 is the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for "Other and unspecified syphilis". It is used by healthcare providers to classify and document this condition in medical records and insurance claims.

What section is A53 in?

A53 is located in Section A50-A64 — "Infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission" within Chapter 1 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

What are the sub-codes of A53?

A53 has 2 sub-code(s) that provide more specific detail: A53.0, A53.9.

When should I use A53?

Use A53 when the patients documented diagnosis matches "Other and unspecified syphilis" and the clinical documentation supports this level of specificity. Always verify with the latest ICD-10-CM guidelines and payer requirements.

People Also Ask

What is the ICD-10 code for Other and unspecified syphilis?

The ICD-10-CM code for Other and unspecified syphilis is A53.

Can A53 be used for primary diagnosis?

No, A53 is non-billable. Use a more specific sub-code for primary diagnosis billing.

What chapter is A53 in?

A53 is in Chapter 1 of the ICD-10-CM Tabular List.

Is A53 valid for 2026?

Yes, A53 is a valid ICD-10-CM code for the 2026 fiscal year, subject to official CMS updates.

See Also

← PreviousA52.9Late syphilis, unspecifiedNext →A53.0Latent syphilis, unspecified as early or late
Code Details
A53
Other and unspecified syphilis
Non-Billable / Non-Specific Code
1 — Certain infectious and parasitic diseases (A00-B99)
A50-A64 — Infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission
2026 ICD-10-CM