Name of the Condition

• Unspecified Superficial Keratitis, Unspecified Eye
• Technical Term: Superficial keratitis

Summary

Unspecified superficial keratitis is an eye condition characterized by inflammation of the cornea's outermost layer, the epithelium. It can affect one or both eyes, although the specific eye is not designated in this description.

Causes

The exact cause of this condition can be varied and might include:

• Viral or bacterial infections
• Dry eyes
• Allergic reactions
• Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light or chemicals

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase the risk of developing unspecified superficial keratitis include:

• Prolonged contact lens use
• Frequent exposure to irritants or UV light
• A history of dry eyes or allergies

Symptoms

Common symptoms can include:

• Eye redness
• Blurry vision
• Eye discomfort or pain
• Sensitivity to light
• A feeling of grittiness in the eye

Diagnosis

Unspecified superficial keratitis is typically diagnosed through:

• A comprehensive eye examination
• Slit-lamp examination by an ophthalmologist

Treatment Options

Treatment options vary based on the underlying cause but may include:

• Antibiotic or antiviral eye drops for infections
• Lubricating eye drops to relieve dryness
• Anti-inflammatory medications for allergic causes
• Avoidance of irritants and protective eyewear against UV light

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for unspecified superficial keratitis is generally good, with symptoms often resolving within a few weeks. Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor healing and prevent complications.

Complications

Untreated superficial keratitis can lead to:

• Chronic pain
• Scarring of the cornea
• Vision impairment

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Proper hygiene and care for contact lens wearers
• Regular use of sunglasses to protect against UV rays
• Management of underlying conditions such as dry eye or allergies

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek medical attention if experiencing:

• Severe eye pain
• Sudden change in vision
• Persistent redness or discharge from the eye

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Ophthalmology: aao.org
• National Eye Institute: nei.nih.gov
• Dry Eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Facebook support group

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure each instance of keratitis is coded separately.
• Verify whether the condition involves one or both eyes, even when unspecified.
• Avoid coding based on suspicions—use only documented diagnoses verified by a healthcare provider.