Neonatal jaundice due to infection

This code signifies jaundice in a newborn that is directly caused by an underlying infectious process. The elevated bilirubin levels are a secondary manifestation of the systemic or localized infection affecting the neonate.

Apply this code when documentation clearly links neonatal hyperbilirubinemia to a confirmed or suspected infection, such as sepsis, urinary tract infection, or TORCH infections. Supporting documentation should include laboratory findings (e.g., elevated bilirubin, positive cultures, inflammatory markers) and a physician's statement establishing the causal relationship.

• Always code the underlying infection first, followed by this code.
• Distinguish from other causes of neonatal jaundice, such as ABO incompatibility or prematurity.
• Ensure documentation specifies "due to infection" rather than just "neonatal jaundice" with a co-occurring infection.