A33

What This Code Means

Tetanus neonatorum is a serious bacterial infection that occurs in newborn babies, typically within the first few weeks of life, usually caused by contamination of the umbilical cord stump during delivery or improper cord care. This condition causes severe muscle rigidity and spasms due to a toxin produced by the tetanus bacterium.

Coding Tips

• •This code is specific to tetanus occurring in neonates (newborns) and should only be used for infants in the neonatal period; use other tetanus codes (A34-A35) for tetanus in older children and adults
• •Tetanus neonatorum is typically associated with unhygienic delivery practices or inadequate cord care, so review delivery records and maternal vaccination status documentation to support the diagnosis