P21 is the ICD-10 code for Birth asphyxia. It is a three-character category divided into 3 subcodes; use the subcode whenever the record supports that level of detail. It belongs to the block P20–P29 (Respiratory and cardiovascular disorders specific to the perinatal period) in Chapter XVI, Certain conditions originating in the perinatal period.
- Code type
- Category (3 characters)
- Chapter
- XVI · P00–P96
- Classification
- WHO ICD-10, 2019 version
What P21 excludes
Conditions that look similar but belong under another code.
- intrauterine hypoxia or asphyxia P20.-
Coding notes
- This category is not to be used for low Apgar score without mention of asphyxia or other respiratory problems.
Subcodes of P21
P21 in national editions
Countries report with their own edition of ICD-10. Most keep the WHO code and add more specific codes beneath it.
DP21Iltmangel ved fødsel
P21Syntymäasfyksia
P21Asphyxie unter der Geburt
P21Asphyxie obstétricale
P21asfyxie bij geboorte
Based on the World Health Organization’s International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th revision (ICD-10), 2019 version, and the national editions published by each country’s health authority. This page is a reference, not coding advice; follow your national coding rules when you report.
Look up another code
Stop looking codes up by hand
Docdemic listens to the consultation, writes the note and suggests the diagnosis and procedure codes that fit it, each one checked against your country’s official code list.
Try Docdemic free