Toxic effect of latex, accidental (unintentional), init

This code signifies an adverse reaction to latex that occurred unintentionally. It covers systemic or localized toxic effects resulting from accidental exposure to latex, such as through medical devices, gloves, or other products containing latex. The "initial encounter" designation indicates that the patient is receiving active treatment for the toxic effect.

Use this code when a patient presents with symptoms of latex toxicity, such as contact dermatitis, anaphylaxis, or respiratory distress, and the exposure was accidental. This would include situations like a healthcare worker developing a rash after inadvertently touching latex gloves, or a patient experiencing a reaction to a latex-containing catheter during a procedure.

• Ensure the documentation clearly states the exposure was accidental and not due to an allergic reaction (which would be coded differently).
• Confirm this is the first time the patient is being treated for this specific toxic effect. Subsequent encounters would use a different seventh character.
• Always code the specific manifestation of the toxic effect (e.g., dermatitis, anaphylaxis) first, followed by this code as an external cause.