2025 ICD-10-CM code P78.2
Neonatal hematemesis and melena due to swallowed maternal blood.
The medical necessity for the use of this code is established when a newborn exhibits hematemesis and melena due to the ingestion of maternal blood.The diagnosis requires clinical evaluation and documentation of the associated symptoms and circumstances of the birth.
Diagnosis and management of this condition are typically the responsibility of a neonatologist or pediatrician. This involves confirming the diagnosis, monitoring the newborn's condition, and providing any necessary supportive care.
In simple words: This code is used for newborns who vomit blood and have dark, tarry stools because they swallowed their mother's blood during birth.
This code describes a condition in newborns where there is vomiting of blood (hematemesis) and the passage of black, tarry stools (melena) resulting from the ingestion of maternal blood during the birthing process.
Example 1: A newborn infant presents with vomiting of blood and black, tarry stools shortly after birth. Upon examination, it is determined that the infant swallowed maternal blood during delivery, leading to the symptoms., During a difficult delivery, a newborn aspirates some maternal blood and subsequently develops hematemesis and melena., A newborn infant born via C-section experiences hematemesis and melena in the first few hours of life. After ruling out other potential causes, it is determined the newborn swallowed maternal blood during the procedure.
Documentation should include details of the delivery, the presence of hematemesis and melena, and any diagnostic tests performed to confirm the diagnosis. The amount of blood swallowed and the infant's overall condition should also be documented.
- Specialties:Neonatology, Pediatrics
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Birthing Center