Scombroid fish poisoning, accidental (unintentional), subs

This code signifies a diagnosis of scombroid fish poisoning that occurred unintentionally, and the patient is presenting for follow-up care after the initial treatment. Scombroid poisoning results from consuming fish (e.g., tuna, mackerel, mahi-mahi) that has been improperly stored, leading to bacterial conversion of histidine to histamine, which causes an allergic-like reaction. Symptoms typically include flushing, headache, palpitations, and gastrointestinal distress.

Use this code when a patient is seen for continued management, monitoring of symptoms, or evaluation of residual effects related to an accidental scombroid fish poisoning that was previously diagnosed and treated. This applies to visits occurring after the initial encounter for the acute poisoning.

• Ensure documentation clearly indicates the encounter is for follow-up care, not the initial acute presentation.
• Verify the poisoning was accidental; intentional poisoning would require a different code.
• Consider co-reporting any persistent symptoms or complications with additional codes.