2025 ICD-10-CM code T56.0
Toxic effects of lead and its compounds.
Medical necessity for the diagnosis of lead poisoning (T56.0) is established through documented evidence of lead exposure, along with corresponding clinical manifestations and laboratory findings consistent with lead toxicity.The documentation should support a causal relationship between lead exposure and the patient's health condition.
Clinicians are responsible for documenting the source, type, and severity of lead exposure, along with any associated symptoms or health consequences.They should also consider ordering appropriate diagnostic tests, such as blood lead level measurements, and initiating appropriate treatment and management strategies based on the patient's clinical presentation.
In simple words: This code signifies poisoning from lead found in sources like old paint, dust, water, or some jewelry. It covers various health problems caused by lead exposure.
This code represents the toxic effects of exposure to lead and its various chemical compounds, encompassing exposure from all sources except medicinal use.
Example 1: A child presents with developmental delays and abdominal pain.A blood test reveals elevated lead levels, and the home is inspected and found to have lead paint.The child's condition is coded as T56.0., An adult working in a battery manufacturing plant experiences fatigue, muscle weakness, and headaches.Testing reveals high lead levels, linking the symptoms to occupational exposure.This is coded as T56.0., A patient presents with peripheral neuropathy and anemia. After a thorough investigation, including environmental assessment and laboratory tests, lead poisoning is confirmed as the cause, leading to a diagnosis of T56.0.
Documentation should include details about the source of lead exposure (e.g., occupational, environmental), the duration and intensity of exposure, clinical findings (e.g., symptoms, signs), and laboratory results confirming lead poisoning (e.g., blood lead levels).Any associated conditions or complications should also be documented.
** For cases where a retained lead foreign body is present, use additional code Z18.-
- Specialties:Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Occupational Medicine, Toxicology
- Place of Service:Office, Home, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital, Public Health Clinic