Name of the Condition

• Child Sexual Abuse, Confirmed, Initial Encounter
• ICD-10 Code: T74.22XA

Summary

Child sexual abuse refers to any sexual activity with a child by an adult or older adolescent. It is a serious violation of a child's rights and can have long-lasting effects on their physical and mental health.

Causes

• Perpetrators could be family members, acquaintances, or strangers.
• Often related to environments where there is insufficient supervision or protection for the child.

Risk Factors

• Lack of supervision or neglect.
• Family dysfunction or presence of substance abuse.
• Social isolation and lack of a supportive network.

Symptoms

• Physical signs may include injuries to the genital areas.
• Behavioral changes such as withdrawal, fearfulness, depression, or aggressive behavior.
• Difficulty in social interactions and avoiding specific people or places.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare professional.
• Interviews and assessments by child psychologists or social workers.
• Collection of forensic evidence if applicable.

Treatment Options

• Immediate medical care for any physical injuries.
• Psychological support and therapy to help cope with trauma.
• Engagement with social services to ensure the child's safety.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis varies depending on the severity and duration of abuse.
• Continuous psychological support is crucial for recovery.
• Regular follow-ups to assess mental and physical health improvements.

Complications

• Long-term psychological issues, such as PTSD, depression, anxiety.
• Issues with relationships and trust as adults.
• Potential for ongoing violence or abuse if not protected.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Education on personal safety and body autonomy for children.
• Encouraging open communication channels between children and trusted adults.
• Regular monitoring and supervision in communal and private settings.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Unsure or confirmed signs of abuse should prompt immediate action.
• Sudden behavioral changes or physical signs necessitate professional evaluation.

Additional Resources

• National Child Abuse Hotline
• American Psychological Association
• Local child protection services for immediate aid.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure documentation explicitly confirms the abuse for coding T74.22XA.
• Pay attention to the encounter type to differentiate between initial and subsequent encounters.
• Avoid coding errors by cross-verifying with clinical notes and legal documentation.