Adult sexual abuse, suspected, sequela

This code signifies a suspected case of sexual abuse in an adult where the immediate event has passed, and the patient is presenting with long-term effects or complications. It indicates that the abuse is not a current, ongoing event but rather a past experience leading to present sequelae. The "suspected" aspect means that while there is clinical suspicion, a definitive diagnosis of abuse may not yet be formally established.

Use this code when an adult patient presents with physical, psychological, or behavioral symptoms that are clinically suspected to be the result of past sexual abuse. This applies when the abuse itself is not occurring at the time of the encounter, but its lasting impact is being addressed. It is appropriate for initial evaluations where abuse is a strong consideration, even if not fully confirmed.

• Always assign this code as a secondary diagnosis, with the primary code reflecting the specific sequela (e.g., PTSD, depression, physical injuries).
• Do not use this code for current or acute sexual abuse; refer to the T74 category for confirmed abuse.
• The "S" in the seventh character indicates a sequela, meaning it's for complications or conditions arising from the initial injury or condition.