Congenital rubella

This code identifies a congenital infection caused by the rubella virus, acquired by the fetus from the mother during pregnancy. It encompasses a range of birth defects and health problems that can affect multiple organ systems, including the heart, eyes, ears, and brain.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of congenital rubella syndrome or any specific manifestation directly attributed to congenital rubella infection. This typically requires a confirmed maternal rubella infection during pregnancy and/or characteristic clinical findings in the neonate.

• Ensure documentation specifies "congenital" rubella to differentiate from acquired rubella (056.x).
• Code all specific manifestations of congenital rubella syndrome (e.g., congenital cataracts, congenital heart defects) in addition to this code.
• Review the mother's medical record for a history of rubella infection during pregnancy, if available, to support the diagnosis.