Poisoning by heavy metal anti-infectives

This code signifies an adverse health effect resulting from the ingestion, absorption, or exposure to heavy metal compounds specifically used for their anti-infective properties. This includes systemic toxicity or localized reactions caused by substances like mercury, arsenic, or bismuth when administered or encountered as antimicrobial agents.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates poisoning due to a heavy metal anti-infective. This typically involves cases of overdose, accidental ingestion, or adverse reactions to therapeutic doses of such agents. Supporting documentation should specify the heavy metal involved and confirm its use or intended use as an anti-infective.

• Always identify the specific heavy metal involved and its anti-infective purpose from the medical record.
• Distinguish this from poisoning by heavy metals used for other purposes (e.g., industrial exposure, other medications).
• Consider an E-code (external cause of injury) to further specify the circumstances of the poisoning (e.g., accidental, intentional).