ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesP38.9

P38.9

Billable

Omphalitis without hemorrhage

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 P38.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of omphalitis without hemorrhage.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Omphalitis is an infection of the umbilical stump that can occur in newborns, typically within the first week of life. It is characterized by inflammation and infection of the umbilical cord and surrounding tissue. The condition can arise due to poor hygiene practices during cord care, leading to bacterial colonization and subsequent infection. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and discharge from the umbilical area, and in severe cases, systemic signs of infection such as fever or lethargy may develop. Omphalitis can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly, including sepsis, which can be life-threatening. Management typically involves appropriate antibiotic therapy and meticulous care of the umbilical stump to prevent further infection. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and ensure the health of the newborn.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between omphalitis and other umbilical cord conditions.
  • Understanding the clinical presentation and severity of infection.
  • Documenting the presence of systemic symptoms or complications.
  • Navigating coding guidelines for associated procedures or treatments.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings.
  • Failure to document the onset and duration of symptoms.
  • Misclassification of the severity of infection.
  • Omission of associated procedures or treatments.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neonatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the clinical presentation, treatment plan, and response to therapy.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Neonates presenting with umbilical redness and discharge in the NICU.

Billing Considerations

Consider the need for cultures if systemic infection is suspected.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Thorough history and physical examination findings related to umbilical cord care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Outpatient follow-up for a newborn with a history of omphalitis.

Billing Considerations

Monitor for long-term effects or complications from the infection.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use P38.9 When
  • Coders should refer to the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding infections and ensure that documentation supports the diagnosis of omphalitis without hemorrhage
  • Specific criteria for neonatal infections should be followed

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use P38.9 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99291CPT Code

Critical care, evaluation and management of the neonate

Clinical Scenario

Used when a newborn with omphalitis requires critical care due to systemic infection.

Documentation Requirements

Document the critical nature of the condition and interventions performed.

Specialty Considerations

Neonatologists should ensure all critical care elements are documented.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of omphalitis, improving the ability to capture the severity and complications associated with this condition, which aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of omphalitis, improving the ability to capture the severity and complications associated with this condition, which aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of omphalitis, improving the ability to capture the severity and complications associated with this condition, which aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Guidelines for Umbilical Cord Care

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Guidelines for Umbilical Cord Care

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common signs of omphalitis in newborns?

Common signs include redness, swelling, and discharge from the umbilical stump, along with possible systemic symptoms like fever or lethargy.