Child sexual exploitation, suspected, sequela

This code signifies a suspected case of child sexual exploitation where the long-term effects or complications are currently being addressed. It indicates that the patient is presenting with sequelae (e.g., psychological trauma, physical health issues, behavioral problems) believed to be a consequence of past sexual exploitation, but the exploitation itself is not definitively confirmed.

Apply this code when a patient, particularly a child or adolescent, is being treated for conditions strongly suggestive of a history of sexual exploitation, but a formal diagnosis of abuse has not yet been established or confirmed. This is appropriate when the clinician suspects the exploitation as the underlying cause of the current presenting symptoms or conditions.

• Always use in conjunction with codes for the specific sequelae being treated (e.g., PTSD, depression, STIs).
• The "S" at the end indicates a sequela, meaning the code is for the late effects of the suspected exploitation.
• Do not use if child sexual abuse is confirmed; instead, use the appropriate confirmed abuse code.