Sclerema neonatorum

This code represents a rare, severe form of subcutaneous fat necrosis occurring in neonates, characterized by diffuse hardening and induration of the skin and subcutaneous tissues. It typically affects premature or critically ill infants and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality due to systemic involvement.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of sclerema neonatorum in an infant. This diagnosis is typically made based on clinical presentation of widespread skin hardening, often accompanied by underlying systemic illness such as sepsis, hypothermia, or metabolic disturbances.

• Differentiate from subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn (P83.2 in ICD-10-CM), which is generally benign and self-resolving.
• Always code any underlying conditions or systemic complications, such as sepsis or hypothermia, as additional diagnoses.
• Ensure the medical record specifies "sclerema neonatorum" to avoid confusion with other forms of neonatal skin induration.