In simple words: This code means the baby had a viral liver infection at birth.The infection happened while the baby was still in the womb or shortly after birth. Doctors will need to do more tests to figure out which virus caused it.

Congenital viral hepatitis (P35.3) refers to viral hepatitis present at birth.This indicates that the infection was acquired in utero (during pregnancy) or during the perinatal period (birth process or the first 28 days of life).The specific virus causing the hepatitis needs further investigation and may include, but is not limited to, Hepatitis A, B, C, or other less common viruses. The diagnosis requires clinical presentation, laboratory findings indicative of liver inflammation, and potential confirmation via viral testing.

Example 1: A newborn infant presents with jaundice, elevated liver enzymes, and a positive Hepatitis B surface antigen test. This indicates congenital Hepatitis B infection. The code P35.3 is used., A mother with a history of Hepatitis C infection delivers a baby with elevated liver enzymes and hepatomegaly. Further testing confirms congenital Hepatitis C infection. The code P35.3 is used., A neonate develops elevated liver function tests several days after birth, and serological tests are inconclusive regarding specific viral infection. The diagnosis is listed as congenital viral hepatitis with further investigation planned. P35.3 is used.

Maternal history of viral infections, neonatal clinical findings (jaundice, hepatomegaly), laboratory results (liver function tests, viral serology, viral load), imaging studies (if done), treatment plan, and response to treatment.

** The use of P35.3 necessitates detailed documentation to support the diagnosis and justify medical necessity for billing purposes.Further investigation might be required to determine the specific virus and guide management. The clinical significance of the diagnosis and the associated management decisions depend highly on the viral load and subsequent liver disease.