Exposure to infrared radiation, sequela

This code signifies a long-term or late-developing health problem resulting from a past exposure to infrared radiation. It indicates that the patient is experiencing a residual effect or complication directly attributable to that prior exposure, rather than an acute injury.

Use this code when documenting conditions such as chronic skin changes (e.g., hyperpigmentation, telangiectasias) or ocular damage (e.g., cataracts) that are definitively linked to a previous incident of infrared radiation exposure. This code is appropriate when the acute phase of the injury has resolved, and the patient is now presenting with a lasting consequence.

• Always sequence this code after the code(s) for the specific sequela being treated (e.g., H26.1- for traumatic cataract).
• Ensure documentation clearly establishes the causal link between the past infrared exposure and the current sequela.
• Do not use this code for acute infrared burns or injuries; those require codes from the T20-T32 range.