Toxic effect of unspecified metal, assault, sequela

This code indicates a long-term health problem resulting from a toxic exposure to an unidentified metallic substance, where the exposure was intentionally inflicted by another person. The "sequela" aspect signifies that the acute phase of the poisoning has passed, and the patient is now experiencing residual effects.

Use this code for patients presenting with chronic or residual symptoms directly attributable to a past assault involving an unspecified metal. This applies when the specific metal involved in the toxic exposure is unknown, and the intent of the exposure was malicious.

• Ensure documentation clearly supports a past assault and ongoing sequelae from an unspecified metal.
• Do not use this code for acute poisoning; the "S" seventh character indicates sequela.
• Always attempt to identify the specific metal if possible, as more specific codes exist.