Is ICD-10-CM code A53 billable?

No, A53 (Other and unspecified syphilis) is a non-billable ICD-10-CM code. It must be coded to a more specific subcategory before it can be used for reimbursement.

What chapter does ICD-10-CM code A53 belong to?

A53 belongs to Chapter 1 of the ICD-10-CM tabular list: A00–B99 (Certain Infectious and Parasitic Diseases).

A53Not billable, use a more specific code below

Other and unspecified syphilis

In Infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission (A50-A64), chapter 1: Certain Infectious and Parasitic Diseases

2 billable codes under A53: none are a CC or MCC; none map to an HCC.

Instructional notes

Also applies, from Infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission (A50-A64)

These notes sit on A50-A64 and apply to every code under it, including A53.

Excludes1: not coded here, use a different code

nonspecific and nongonococcal urethritis (N34.1)
Reiter's disease (M02.3-)

Excludes2: not included here, code separately if applicable

human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] disease (B20)

Official coding guidelines

From the ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, FY 2027 (CMS and NCHS). Links open the PDF at the right page.

Rules for coding infections and parasitic diseases, including HIV, organism and drug resistance codes, sepsis and septic shock, MRSA, Zika, and COVID-19.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Infections (page 19)
Infectious agents as the cause of diseases classified to other chapters (page 22)
Infections resistant to antibiotics (page 22)
Sepsis, Severe Sepsis, and Septic Shock (page 23)
Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Conditions (page 27)
Zika virus infections (page 28)
Coronavirus infections (page 28)

Read Section I.C.1 (page 19)

All codes under A53

A53 can't be used on a claim. Pick a billable code below; grey headings group them.

A53 MS-DRGs

As the principal diagnosis, all 2 billable codes under A53 group to MS-DRG 867, 868, or 869 (v44.0). Which one applies depends on procedures performed, secondary diagnoses (CC/MCC), and the patient's age and discharge status.

Other codes that refer to A53

Notes on these codes point to A53.

A65-A69 Excludes2: syphilis (A50-A53)
O98.1 Includes: Conditions in A50-A53

About the condition

Plain-language background from MedlinePlus (National Library of Medicine), not coding guidance.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria. It infects the genital area, lips, mouth, or anus of both men and women. You usually get syphilis from sexual contact with someone who has it. It can also pass from mother to baby during pregnancy.

Code history

Valid since FY2016, when ICD-10-CM took effect on October 1, 2015. No changes since.