Sclerema neonatorum

Sclerema neonatorum is a rare, severe hardening of the subcutaneous fat, primarily affecting premature or critically ill newborns. It presents as diffuse, non-pitting induration of the skin, often starting on the buttocks, thighs, and calves, and can spread rapidly. This condition is associated with high mortality due to underlying systemic illness.

This code is used when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of sclerema neonatorum in a newborn. It is typically seen in infants with severe hypothermia, sepsis, or other critical conditions. Supporting documentation should describe the characteristic skin hardening and the infant's clinical status.

• Ensure documentation specifies "sclerema neonatorum" to differentiate from other neonatal skin conditions.
• Always code any underlying critical conditions (e.g., prematurity, sepsis, hypothermia) that contributed to the development of sclerema.
• Do not confuse with subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn, which is a less severe, self-limiting condition.