Tetanus neonatorum

Tetanus neonatorum is a severe, often fatal, form of tetanus affecting newborns, typically within the first two weeks of life. It is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which enters the body through an unhealed umbilical stump, leading to muscle spasms, rigidity, and convulsions.

This code is used when a newborn presents with clinical signs and symptoms consistent with tetanus, such as trismus (lockjaw), generalized muscle spasms, opisthotonos, and difficulty feeding, with onset usually within the first 28 days of life. Documentation should clearly indicate a diagnosis of tetanus in a neonate, often linked to unhygienic umbilical cord care.

• Ensure documentation specifies "neonatal" or "newborn" tetanus to differentiate from other forms of tetanus.
• Do not confuse with generalized tetanus (A35) or other specified tetanus (A34) which apply to older individuals.
• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.