2025 ICD-10-CM code T38.0

Poisoning by, adverse effect of and underdosing of glucocorticoids and synthetic analogues.

Use a secondary code from Chapter 20 (External causes of morbidity) to indicate the cause of the poisoning or adverse effect, if applicable.Use additional codes to specify any associated conditions or manifestations.

Yes, the 7th character is used to specify the encounter (initial, subsequent, or sequela).

Medical necessity is established by the clinician's documentation supporting the diagnosis of poisoning, adverse effect, or underdosing due to glucocorticoids and the need for treatment or intervention.

The clinician is responsible for documenting the type of glucocorticoid involved, the route of exposure (ingestion, injection, etc.), the circumstances surrounding the event (accidental, intentional, assault, etc.), and the presenting signs and symptoms.

In simple words: This code represents poisoning, adverse effects, or underdosing of glucocorticoid medications.

Poisoning by, adverse effect of and underdosing of glucocorticoids and synthetic analogues. Excludes1: glucocorticoids, topically used (T49.-) mineralocorticoids and their antagonists (T50.0-) oxytocic hormones (T48.0-) parathyroid hormones and derivatives (T50.9-)

Example 1: A patient presents to the emergency department with symptoms of adrenal crisis (weakness, hypotension, vomiting) after abruptly stopping their prescribed prednisone. The patient is diagnosed with adrenal insufficiency due to prednisone underdosing.Code T38.0 is used along with a code for adrenal insufficiency., A patient accidentally takes double their prescribed dose of dexamethasone for several days. They present to their physician with symptoms of Cushing's syndrome (weight gain, moon face, hirsutism). Code T38.0 is used, along with a code for the adverse effect (Cushing's syndrome)., A child ingests a large quantity of hydrocortisone cream. They are brought to the emergency department for evaluation and treatment.Code T38.0 is used, along with codes specifying the specific glucocorticoid involved and the intent (accidental).

Documentation should include the specific glucocorticoid involved, the route of exposure, the circumstances surrounding the event, and the clinical manifestations.

** For adverse effects, code first the nature of the adverse effect. The drug causing the adverse effect should be identified using T38.0 with the appropriate 7th character.Use additional codes to specify manifestations of poisoning or underdosing (e.g., Y63.6, Y63.8-Y63.9, Z91.12-, Z91.13-).

  • Specialties:Endocrinology, Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Toxicology
  • Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital, Office, Outpatient Hospital
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