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2025 ICD-10-CM code P59

Neonatal jaundice from other and unspecified causes.

Code P59 is used for neonatal jaundice not attributed to other specific causes. If the cause is identified (e.g., prematurity, breastfeeding), a more specific code should be used. The code should only be used for newborns, never on maternal records.

Medical necessity for the management of neonatal jaundice is established by the presence of elevated bilirubin levels that pose a risk of complications, especially acute bilirubin encephalopathy or kernicterus.The chosen treatment (e.g., phototherapy, exchange transfusion) must be appropriate for the infant's condition and gestational age.

Diagnosing and managing neonatal jaundice is the responsibility of the attending physician, typically a neonatologist or pediatrician. This involves identifying the cause, assessing severity, and initiating appropriate treatment to prevent potential complications like kernicterus.

In simple words: This code describes jaundice in newborns that isn't caused by a metabolic problem or kernicterus (brain damage from severe jaundice) and the cause is either unknown or isn’t one of the other specific types.

Neonatal jaundice from other and unspecified causes. Excludes1: jaundice due to inborn errors of metabolism (E70-E88) kernicterus (P57.-)

Example 1: A full-term infant develops jaundice on day 3 of life, without any other symptoms. Blood tests rule out metabolic disorders and infections. The jaundice resolves with phototherapy, and P59 is used as the diagnosis., A preterm infant develops jaundice shortly after birth. After ruling out other causes, the jaundice is attributed to prematurity, but with some additional factors contributing.The code P59 is used., A newborn presents with jaundice, and various tests are inconclusive. The cause remains unknown despite investigation, and supportive care is given. The diagnosis is coded as P59.9 (Neonatal jaundice, unspecified).

Documentation should include the onset and duration of jaundice, any associated symptoms, results of bilirubin levels and other relevant blood tests, treatment provided (e.g., phototherapy, exchange transfusion), and any identified underlying causes. 

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