E08.3519 Diabetes mellitus due to underlying condition with proliferative diabetic retinopathy with macular edema, unspecified eye

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Diabetes mellitus due to underlying condition with proliferative diabetic retinopathy with macular edema, unspecified eye

#### Summary
This condition occurs when diabetes, resulting from another underlying health issue, leads to severe changes in the retina of the eye. Specifically, it involves new, fragile blood vessels growing on the retina (proliferative diabetic retinopathy) and swelling in the macula (macular edema), potentially affecting vision. The term "unspecified eye" indicates that the condition could affect either or both eyes, but a specific eye is not stated.

#### Causes
This form of diabetes stems from another underlying condition such as pancreatitis, hormonal disorders, or certain genetic syndromes. These primary health issues lead to changes in insulin production or action, creating a cascade effect that impacts eye health.

#### Risk Factors
- Having a medical condition known to cause secondary diabetes
- Poorly controlled blood sugar levels
- Longstanding diabetes, particularly when associated with an underlying condition
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol levels

#### Symptoms
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Dark spots or floaters in vision
- Poor night vision
- Vision loss in one or both eyes may occur if left untreated

#### Diagnosis
- Comprehensive eye examination
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT) to visualize retinal swelling
- Fluorescein angiography to check for abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage
- Blood tests for managing diabetes

#### Treatment Options
- Blood sugar management through medications or insulin therapy to slow disease progression
- Anti-VEGF injections to reduce macular edema and control abnormal blood vessel growth
- Laser surgery (photocoagulation) to secure retinal detachment and prevent further damage
- Possible vitrectomy in more severe cases to clear bleeding or repair the retina

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
With early detection and tailored treatment, individuals can maintain vision and slow the progression of retinal damage. Regular follow-up with an ophthalmologist is crucial for monitoring any changes in vision or eye health.

#### Complications
- Permanent vision loss or blindness if untreated
- Increased risk for retinal detachment
- Development of glaucoma or cataracts

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Strict blood sugar control through diet and medications
- Keeping blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check
- Regular eye examinations
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Sudden changes in vision, such as major blurriness or complete vision loss
- Appearance of new floaters or dark spots in vision
- Pain or pressure in the eye

#### Additional Resources
- American Diabetes Association: [diabetes.org](https://www.diabetes.org)
- American Academy of Ophthalmology: [aao.org](https://www.aao.org)
- Diabetic Retinopathy Support Group on [inspire.com](https://www.inspire.com)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the underlying condition causing diabetes mellitus is documented and coded if known.
- Verify whether the condition affects one or both eyes; use specific eye codes when information is available.
- Avoid confusion with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy, which has different clinical attributes and codes.

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