2025 ICD-10-CM code P57
Kernicterus, a type of brain damage caused by excessive bilirubin in the blood, primarily affecting newborns.
The medical necessity of treatment for hyperbilirubinemia and kernicterus is established by documenting the dangerously high bilirubin levels and the potential for brain damage if left untreated.
Managing newborns with hyperbilirubinemia and preventing kernicterus is the responsibility of neonatologists, pediatricians, and family physicians. This includes monitoring bilirubin levels, providing appropriate treatment for jaundice (e.g., phototherapy, exchange transfusion), and educating parents about the signs and symptoms of severe jaundice.
- Certain conditions originating in the perinatal period (P00-P96)
- Hemorrhagic and hematological disorders of newborn (P50-P61)
In simple words: Kernicterus is a rare but serious brain injury that can happen in newborns with very high levels of bilirubin. Bilirubin is a yellow substance made during the normal breakdown of red blood cells.If a baby's liver can't remove bilirubin quickly enough, it can build up in the blood and cause jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).When bilirubin levels get extremely high, it can move from the blood into the brain and cause damage. This is kernicterus.
Kernicterus, also known as bilirubin encephalopathy, is a severe form of brain damage resulting from a buildup of unconjugated bilirubin in a newborn's blood and brain tissues. This condition is a complication of severe jaundice and can lead to various neurological problems.
Example 1: A newborn with Rh incompatibility develops severe jaundice within the first 24 hours of life. Despite phototherapy, bilirubin levels continue to rise, prompting an exchange transfusion to prevent kernicterus., A preterm infant with ABO blood group incompatibility develops jaundice and lethargy. Due to the prematurity and rising bilirubin levels, the infant is closely monitored and receives intensive phototherapy to avoid the development of kernicterus., A term newborn experiences difficulty breastfeeding and delayed passage of meconium, leading to elevated bilirubin levels. The infant develops signs of kernicterus, including lethargy, poor feeding, and a high-pitched cry, requiring immediate medical intervention.
Documentation for kernicterus should include bilirubin levels, the presence and severity of jaundice, any treatment provided (e.g., phototherapy, exchange transfusion), and any neurological symptoms observed.
- Specialties:Neonatology, Pediatrics, Family Medicine
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Office