Extremely low birth weight newborn, less than 500 grams

This code identifies a liveborn infant whose birth weight is less than 500 grams, indicating an extremely low birth weight. These newborns are typically born significantly preterm and face substantial health challenges due to their extreme immaturity and small size.

Apply this code for any liveborn infant documented as having a birth weight under 500 grams. This is often seen in cases of extreme prematurity, typically less than 28 weeks gestation. Documentation should clearly state the infant's birth weight in grams.

• Always confirm the exact birth weight in grams from the medical record, typically from the delivery room or nursery notes.
• Do not confuse this with codes for other low birth weight categories; ensure the weight is specifically less than 500 grams.
• This code is typically a secondary diagnosis, following the code for the liveborn infant (Z38.xx).