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Double pterygium of left eye
ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- Double pterygium of left eye
- Also referred to as bilateral pterygium on the ocular surface of the left eye.
#### Summary
- Double pterygium refers to the presence of two fleshy, benign growths on the conjunctiva of the left eye. These growths can extend onto the cornea, potentially affecting vision if they grow large enough.
#### Causes
- The exact cause is not well understood but is associated with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, wind, dust, and dry climates.
#### Risk Factors
- Increased exposure to UV light
- Working outdoors or in environments with high dust or wind conditions
- Family history of pterygium
- Age, as it is more common in adults over the age of 20
#### Symptoms
- Redness and irritation in the eye
- A visible growth on the white of the eye that may extend to the cornea
- A feeling of a foreign body in the eye
- Blurred vision if the pterygium encroaches on the cornea
#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination by an eye care professional.
- Imaging or slit-lamp examination may be used to assess the extent of corneal involvement.
#### Treatment Options
- Observation if the pterygium is not causing significant symptoms or vision impairment.
- Use of lubricating eye drops to relieve irritation.
- Surgical removal may be recommended if the pterygium affects vision or causes severe discomfort.
#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Prognosis is generally good with appropriate treatment.
- Regular follow-up is necessary to monitor for recurrence, as recurrence rates can be high after surgical removal.
#### Complications
- If untreated, it can lead to significant visual impairment.
- Post-surgical recurrence is possible and can sometimes grow back more aggressively.
#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Wearing UV-protective eyewear and hats to limit UV exposure.
- Avoiding environments with excessive dust or wind when possible.
- Keeping eyes lubricated in dry conditions.
#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Eye redness, irritation, or a noticeable growth on the eye.
- Blurred vision or any change in vision warrant immediate professional evaluation.
#### Additional Resources
- American Academy of Ophthalmology [https://www.aao.org]
- National Eye Institute [https://www.nei.nih.gov]
#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure specificity in coding by noting which eye is affected and if double pterygium is present.
- Avoid misclassifying as single pterygium, as this can lead to errors in patient treatment planning.