Effect of heat and light, unspecified, sequela

This code signifies a long-term or late-occurring health problem resulting from an unspecified exposure to heat or light. It indicates that the initial acute injury has resolved, but a residual condition persists due to that past exposure. The specific nature of the original heat or light exposure is not documented or is unknown.

Apply this code when a patient presents with a chronic condition, symptom, or complication that is directly attributed by the provider to a past, unspecified heat or light exposure. This is appropriate when the acute phase of the injury has passed and the patient is now experiencing a sequela, and no more specific code for the effect of heat/light or the specific sequela is available or appropriate.

• This code is for sequelae only; never use it for the initial acute injury.
• Always sequence this code after the code for the specific sequela (e.g., scar, chronic pain).
• Ensure provider documentation clearly links the current condition to a past, unspecified heat or light exposure.