Chorioamnionitis affecting fetus or newborn

This code signifies an inflammatory condition of the fetal membranes (chorion and amnion) that impacts the fetus or newborn. It indicates an infection within the uterus during pregnancy or labor that has affected the infant.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states chorioamnionitis affecting the fetus or newborn, often presenting with signs of infection in the infant such as sepsis, pneumonia, or respiratory distress. Supporting documentation includes physician notes detailing the diagnosis and its impact on the neonate.

• Ensure documentation clearly links the maternal chorioamnionitis to an effect on the fetus or newborn.
• Do not use this code for maternal chorioamnionitis without documented fetal/neonatal involvement; use codes from Chapter 11 for maternal conditions.
• Sequence this code as a principal diagnosis when it is the primary reason for admission or as a secondary diagnosis when it contributes to the newborn's condition.