Newborn light for gestational age, less than 500 grams

This diagnosis code signifies a liveborn infant whose birth weight is less than 500 grams, indicating severe intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or prematurity. This condition places the newborn at extremely high risk for various complications due to their underdeveloped organ systems and minimal body mass.

Apply this code for newborns documented as "light for gestational age" with a birth weight explicitly recorded as less than 500 grams. This is typically used in conjunction with codes for prematurity and other conditions related to extreme low birth weight. Documentation must clearly state the birth weight and the "light for gestational age" status.

• Always sequence this code after the primary diagnosis for the liveborn infant (e.g., Z38.00).
• Ensure the birth weight is explicitly documented as less than 500 grams; do not infer.
• Distinguish from codes for "small for gestational age" without a specified weight, or those with higher birth weight ranges.