Tetanus neonatorum

This code represents a severe, often fatal, form of tetanus affecting newborn infants, typically within the first few weeks of life. It is characterized by muscle spasms, rigidity, and convulsions, resulting from infection of the umbilical stump with Clostridium tetani spores. The condition is preventable through maternal immunization.

Use this code for a neonate diagnosed with tetanus, confirmed by clinical presentation of muscle spasms, rigidity, and trismus, particularly following an unhygienic umbilical cord care. Documentation should clearly indicate the diagnosis of tetanus in a newborn, often with a history of unimmunized mother or non-sterile delivery practices.

• Ensure documentation specifies "neonatorum" to differentiate from adult or childhood tetanus.
• Consider sequencing this as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for admission or primary focus of care.
• Look for associated complications such as respiratory failure or aspiration pneumonia, which would be coded additionally.