Toxic effect of formaldehyde, intentional self-harm, sequela

This code signifies the long-term or residual effects resulting from a deliberate act of self-poisoning with formaldehyde. It indicates that the acute phase of the toxic exposure has passed, but the patient continues to experience health problems directly attributable to the formaldehyde ingestion or exposure. These sequelae can manifest in various organ systems depending on the severity and route of the initial poisoning.

Apply this code when documenting chronic conditions or lasting injuries that are a direct consequence of a past intentional self-harm event involving formaldehyde. This would be used in follow-up encounters after the initial acute treatment, when the patient is being managed for ongoing health issues stemming from the poisoning. Examples include persistent respiratory damage, neurological deficits, or gastrointestinal complications.

• Always sequence this sequela code after the code(s) for the specific residual condition(s) being treated.
• Ensure documentation clearly links the current condition to the past formaldehyde self-poisoning.
• Do not use this code for acute formaldehyde poisoning; instead, use the appropriate acute toxic effect code.