Allergy to seafood

This diagnosis code indicates a patient's adverse immunological reaction to seafood, encompassing a range of marine animals such as fish, shellfish (e.g., shrimp, crab, lobster, clams, mussels, oysters), and cephalopods (e.g., squid, octopus). Symptoms can vary from mild (e.g., hives, itching) to severe (e.g., anaphylaxis, respiratory distress).

Use this code when documenting a confirmed or suspected allergy to any type of seafood. This includes situations where a patient presents with symptoms after seafood consumption, or when a patient reports a known history of seafood allergy, even if not currently experiencing an allergic reaction. It is also appropriate for patients with a documented seafood allergy who are receiving counseling on avoidance or carrying an epinephrine auto-injector.

• Always specify the type of seafood if known and documented (e.g., fish allergy, shellfish allergy) using more specific codes if available, but use this code for a general or unspecified seafood allergy.
• Do not use this code for food intolerances or adverse reactions that are not immunologically mediated.
• Consider additional codes for the specific allergic reaction experienced (e.g., anaphylactic shock, urticaria) if applicable.