Disseminated intravascular coagulation in newborn

This code signifies a severe, life-threatening condition in a newborn characterized by widespread activation of the coagulation system, leading to the formation of microthrombi and subsequent depletion of clotting factors and platelets. This imbalance results in both thrombotic and hemorrhagic manifestations throughout the infant's body. It is often a secondary complication of underlying neonatal sepsis, severe hypoxia, or other critical illnesses.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) occurring in a newborn infant. Supporting clinical evidence typically includes abnormal coagulation studies (e.g., prolonged PT/aPTT, decreased fibrinogen, elevated D-dimer, thrombocytopenia) alongside clinical signs of bleeding or thrombosis.

• Always sequence this code as a secondary diagnosis, as DIC is almost always a complication of an underlying condition.
• Ensure the medical record clearly specifies "newborn" or "neonatal" to differentiate from DIC in adults.
• Do not confuse with other neonatal bleeding disorders unless DIC is explicitly diagnosed.