P83: Other conditions of integument specific to fetus and newborn

P83.0: Sclerema neonatorum

There are different reasons for the skin hardening. When babies are born early or if they are badly ill, their skin can harden shortly after they are born. Skin can also harden when the baby's body temperature is too low.

The hardening usually starts at the thighs and buttocks, and it can spread around the body. The skin then feels hard or waxy. The skin may also be pale and cold or blueish. The child may move about less because of its hardened skin.