Cold injury syndrome of newborn

This code represents a systemic response in a newborn to prolonged exposure to a cold environment, characterized by hypothermia, metabolic acidosis, hypoglycemia, and often respiratory distress. It is a severe form of cold stress that can lead to significant morbidity and mortality if not promptly recognized and treated.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a newborn presenting with signs and symptoms consistent with systemic cold injury, such as core body temperature below 35°C (95°F), lethargy, poor feeding, and metabolic derangements, following exposure to cold. Supporting documentation should include temperature readings, metabolic panel results, and a clear link to environmental cold exposure.

• Differentiate from simple hypothermia (778.3) which may not involve the full systemic syndrome.
• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the reason for admission or the focus of care.
• Look for documentation of specific metabolic abnormalities (e.g., acidosis, hypoglycemia) to support the "syndrome" aspect.