Neonatal skin infection

This code represents any bacterial, fungal, or viral infection affecting the skin of a newborn, typically presenting with erythema, pustules, vesicles, or cellulitis. These infections can range from mild, localized lesions to more severe, widespread involvement.

Assign this code for documented skin infections occurring in a neonate (birth to 28 days of age) when a more specific diagnosis code is not available or appropriate. Documentation should clearly state "neonatal skin infection" or describe an infection of the skin in a newborn without further specificity.

• Do not use this code if a more specific diagnosis, such as omphalitis (P38) or neonatal conjunctivitis (P39.1), is documented.
• Remember the Excludes1 notes: never code this with pemphigus neonatorum (L00) or staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (L00).
• If the causative organism is identified, consider an additional code from B95-B97 to specify the bacterial, viral, or other infectious agent.