2025 ICD-10-CM code P38
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Infections - Infections specific to the perinatal period (P35-P39) Certain conditions originating in the perinatal period (P00-P96) Feed
Omphalitis of the newborn, with or without mild hemorrhage.
Medical necessity for the diagnosis and treatment of omphalitis is established by the presence of symptoms and signs consistent with the condition (redness, swelling, purulent drainage, fever, systemic symptoms), confirming the infection through cultures if indicated, and the need for intervention to prevent serious complications like sepsis.The treatment selected must be aligned with established medical guidelines.
The clinical responsibility for managing omphalitis rests with the pediatrician or neonatologist.This includes assessing the severity of infection, initiating appropriate antibiotic therapy (if needed), monitoring for complications, and educating parents on wound care.
- Certain conditions originating in the perinatal period (P00-P96)
- P35-P39 (Infections specific to the perinatal period)
In simple words: Omphalitis is an infection of a baby's belly button (umbilical cord) that causes redness, swelling, and sometimes bleeding or pus. It can cause fever and needs to be treated by a doctor.
Omphalitis of the newborn is an infection of the umbilical stump characterized by inflammation of the umbilical cord and surrounding tissues.It may present with or without mild hemorrhage.Symptoms can include redness, swelling, and discharge from the umbilical area, potentially accompanied by fever.Severe cases may involve systemic infection and necessitate prompt medical intervention.
Example 1: A newborn presents with a red, swollen umbilical stump, purulent drainage, and a temperature of 38.5°C (101.3°F).The physician diagnoses omphalitis and initiates intravenous antibiotic therapy., A mother reports that her one-week-old infant's umbilical stump is oozing slightly and looks red, but the baby appears otherwise well.The physician diagnoses mild omphalitis and recommends topical antiseptic care., A preterm infant develops omphalitis with significant inflammation and systemic symptoms. The neonatologist performs a complete blood count and blood cultures to guide treatment and monitors for sepsis.
Complete documentation should include a detailed description of the umbilical stump's appearance (including presence of redness, swelling, drainage, and hemorrhage), vital signs (temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate), complete blood count (CBC), blood cultures (if indicated), and the course of treatment (antibiotics, wound care).The documentation must support the medical necessity for the diagnosis and treatment provided.
** This code should not be used for maternal records.Always ensure proper documentation to support the diagnosis.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Neonatology, Pediatrics
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Birthing Center