Abnormal findings on neonatal screening

This code indicates an abnormal result from a neonatal screening test performed on a newborn. These screenings are typically for metabolic, genetic, or hearing disorders, and an abnormal finding suggests the need for further diagnostic evaluation. It does not represent a definitive diagnosis of a disease, but rather a flag for potential issues.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states an abnormal result from a routine neonatal screening test, such as a positive newborn screen for phenylketonuria (PKU) or congenital hypothyroidism, prior to a confirmed diagnosis. This code is appropriate when the abnormal finding is the primary reason for the encounter or further investigation.

• Do not use this code once a definitive diagnosis has been established; instead, code the confirmed condition.
• This code should be sequenced as the primary diagnosis when the abnormal screen is the reason for the visit.
• Ensure documentation specifies which neonatal screening test yielded the abnormal result, even if not required for code assignment.