Corrosion of unsp degree of forehead and cheek, init encntr

This code signifies chemical damage of an indeterminate severity to the skin of the forehead and cheek. It indicates that the injury is due to a corrosive substance, but the specific depth or extent of the burn (e.g., first, second, or third degree) has not yet been determined or documented.

Apply this code when a patient presents with a chemical burn to the forehead and/or cheek, and the medical record does not specify the degree of the burn. This is appropriate for the initial assessment and treatment phase of such an injury.

• Always seek clarification from the provider if the degree of corrosion is not documented.
• Use an external cause code (e.g., X-codes) to identify the corrosive substance and the circumstances of the injury.
• This code is for the initial encounter; subsequent encounters will require a different seventh character.