Toxic effect of mercury and its compounds, undet, init

This code signifies a patient presenting with adverse health effects due to exposure to mercury or its compounds, where the intent of the exposure (e.g., accidental, intentional self-harm, assault) cannot be determined at the time of the initial encounter. Symptoms can range from neurological issues and kidney damage to gastrointestinal distress, depending on the form, dose, and duration of mercury exposure.

This code is appropriate for initial evaluations of patients experiencing acute or subacute mercury poisoning when the circumstances surrounding the exposure are unclear or unknown. This might include cases where the patient is unable to provide a history, or the source of exposure is still under investigation. It is used when the healthcare provider first assesses and treats the patient for the toxic effects.

• Always assign an additional code for the specific manifestation(s) of mercury toxicity.
• Do not use this code if the intent of the exposure is known (e.g., accidental, intentional self-harm).
• The "A" in the seventh character indicates an initial encounter for active treatment.