Toxic effect of venom of black widow spider, undet, init

This code signifies a patient presenting with symptoms resulting from exposure to black widow spider venom, where the intent (e.g., accidental, intentional self-harm, assault) of the exposure is not yet determined. The "initial encounter" designation indicates that the patient is receiving active treatment for the toxic effect.

This code is appropriate for emergency department visits or initial inpatient admissions where a patient exhibits signs of black widow envenomation, such as localized pain, muscle cramps, nausea, or hypertension, and the circumstances surrounding the bite are unclear. It should be used when the definitive intent of the exposure has not been established by the treating physician.

• Assign a more specific intent code (e.g., accidental, intentional self-harm) if documented by the provider.
• Do not use this code for sequelae or follow-up care; instead, use the appropriate subsequent or sequela encounter codes.
• Always code the specific symptoms or manifestations of the envenomation in addition to this code.