H11.052 Peripheral pterygium, progressive, left eye

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Peripheral Pterygium, Progressive, Left Eye (ICD-10: H11.052)

#### Summary
- Peripheral pterygium is an ocular condition characterized by the growth of a wing-shaped tissue from the conjunctiva onto the cornea of the eye, potentially impairing vision. This entry specifies a progressive condition affecting the left eye.

#### Causes
- The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is associated with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, dry eye conditions, and chronic irritation from environmental factors such as wind or dust.

#### Risk Factors
- Increased UV exposure from sunlight or tanning equipment.
- Living in sunny climates or working outdoors.
- Age, with higher incidence in adults.
- Family history of pterygium.
- Exposure to dust, wind, or smoky environments.

#### Symptoms
- Eye redness or irritation.
- Foreign body sensation in the eye.
- Blurred vision if the pterygium encroaches onto the cornea.
- Noticeable growth on the conjunctiva or cornea.

#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is primarily through a clinical examination by an eye care professional, using a slit-lamp microscope to evaluate the growth.

#### Treatment Options
- **Observation:** Regular monitoring if symptoms are mild.
- **Lubricating Eye Drops:** To relieve irritation and redness.
- **Surgery:** Pterygium removal may be recommended if vision is affected, or for cosmetic reasons. Post-surgical medications help reduce inflammation and recurrence.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The condition can recur after surgical removal. Regular follow-up exams are crucial to monitor for recurrence or complications.
- Prognosis is generally good if managed appropriately, but untreated progressive cases may lead to vision impairment.

#### Complications
- Astigmatism due to corneal distortion.
- Scar formation leading to vision changes.
- Recurrence after surgical removal.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Wearing UV-protective sunglasses and hats outdoors to limit solar exposure.
- Using artificial tears to maintain eye moisture.
- Avoiding environmental irritants when possible.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- If you notice persistent redness, discomfort, or a visible growth in the eye.
- Sudden vision changes or increased difficulty seeing clearly warrant immediate attention.

#### Additional Resources
- [American Academy of Ophthalmology](https://www.aao.org) - Provides comprehensive resources for eye health and conditions.
- [National Eye Institute](https://www.nei.nih.gov) - Offers insight into various eye conditions and research updates.

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure laterality is correctly documented as "left eye" to avoid errors.
- Verify that the condition is noted as “progressive” for proper code application.
- Be careful not to confuse or interchange codes for other types of growths or lesions in the eye area.

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