T61: Toxic effect of noxious substances eaten as seafood

Toxic effect of noxious substances eaten as seafood (T61) describes medical conditions arising from exposure to toxic substances such as alcohols, metals, gases, pesticides, or poisonous foods. Quick identification and intervention are critical to minimize organ damage, neurological complications, or fatal outcomes.

Symptoms

• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
• Difficulty breathing or respiratory distress
• Confusion, dizziness, or loss of consciousness
• Skin irritation, burns, or rashes
• Neurological symptoms like tremors or seizures
• Organ dysfunction (e.g., liver, kidney, or heart)
• Paralysis or death in severe exposures

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves patient history, physical examination, and laboratory testing. Blood tests, toxicology panels, imaging studies, and environmental exposure history help pinpoint the toxin. Quick recognition of the source and extent of toxicity is vital to guide antidote administration, supportive treatment, and decontamination procedures when necessary.

ICD10 Code Usage

The ICD10 code T61 is widely used in emergency departments, poison control documentation, inpatient records, and insurance claims. It ensures accurate tracking of toxic exposures, informs treatment pathways, supports public health surveillance, and assists in legal or occupational health reporting when needed.

Related Codes

• T51 – Toxic effect of alcohol
• T52 – Toxic effect of organic solvents
• T53 – Toxic effect of halogen derivatives of aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons
• T54 – Toxic effect of corrosive substances
• T55 – Toxic effect of soaps and detergents
• T56 – Toxic effect of metals
• T57 – Toxic effect of other inorganic substances
• T58 – Toxic effect of carbon monoxide
• T59 – Toxic effect of other gases, fumes and vapors
• T60 – Toxic effect of pesticides
• T62 – Toxic effect of other noxious substances eaten as food
• T63 – Toxic effect of contact with venomous animals and plants
• T64 – Toxic effect of aflatoxin and other mycotoxin food contaminants
• T65 – Toxic effect of other and unspecified substances

FAQs

Q1: What does ICD10 code T61 refer to?
A: It refers to toxic effects resulting from exposure to substances like alcohol, metals, gases, food toxins, and more.

Q2: Is toxic exposure always accidental?
A: No, it can be accidental, occupational, environmental, or intentional.

Q3: Can toxic effects be reversed?
A: Early treatment can reverse many toxic effects, but delays may cause permanent damage.

Q4: How are poisonings treated?
A: Treatments may include antidotes, activated charcoal, supportive care, or dialysis.

Q5: Why is documentation important?
A: Accurate coding ensures appropriate medical response, billing accuracy, and public health tracking.

Conclusion

Using ICD10 code T61 to document Toxic effect of noxious substances eaten as seafood ensures accurate clinical care, facilitates timely interventions, and strengthens healthcare data related to toxic exposures. Thorough documentation improves outcomes for both patients and health systems.