Congenital pneumonia due to Escherichia coli

This code signifies pneumonia acquired by a newborn, specifically caused by Escherichia coli bacteria, that was present at or shortly after birth. It indicates an infection of the lungs that originated during the perinatal period due to this particular bacterial pathogen.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a neonate diagnosed with pneumonia, and laboratory cultures or other diagnostic tests identify Escherichia coli as the causative agent. This code is appropriate for cases where the infection is determined to be congenital, meaning it was transmitted from the mother or acquired during the birth process.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "congenital" or "perinatal" pneumonia and identifies E. coli as the pathogen.
• Do not use this code for pneumonia acquired post-natally, even if E. coli is the cause; instead, refer to codes in Chapter 10 (Diseases of the Respiratory System).
• Consider sequencing this code as the principal diagnosis if it is the primary reason for admission, followed by any associated conditions.