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Endothelial corneal dystrophy, bilateral
ICD10CM code
Name of the Condition
- Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy, Bilateral
- Also known as Fuchs' Endothelial Dystrophy
Summary
Endothelial corneal dystrophy is a progressive eye disorder affecting the cornea, specifically the innermost layer, the endothelium. The condition often leads to cloudy vision and can affect both eyes (bilateral).
Causes
- The exact cause is unknown, but it often has a genetic component with some cases linked to inherited genes.
Risk Factors
- Age: More common in older adults, typically over 50.
- Family history of corneal dystrophy.
- Gender: Women are more likely to be affected than men.
Symptoms
- Blurred vision, especially in the morning.
- Glare or light sensitivity.
- Eye pain or the sensation of something in the eye.
- Swelling or cloudiness in the cornea.
Diagnosis
- Slit-lamp examination by an eye specialist.
- Pachymetry to measure corneal thickness.
- Specular microscopy to assess endothelial cell count.
Treatment Options
- Early stages: Use of hypertonic saline eye drops to reduce corneal swelling.
- Advanced stages: Corneal transplant surgery, such as Descemet's Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK) or Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK).
Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With appropriate treatment, many patients manage symptoms effectively.
- Regular monitoring is important to assess disease progression and response to treatment.
Complications
- If untreated, it can lead to severe vision impairment or blindness.
- Increased risk of infection and scarring post-surgery.
Lifestyle & Prevention
- There are no definitive lifestyle changes to prevent the condition due to its genetic nature.
- Protecting eyes from trauma and maintaining regular eye check-ups may help manage symptoms.
When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek immediate attention if experiencing sudden vision loss, severe pain, or significant changes in vision.
Additional Resources
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure to specify the condition as bilateral.
- Verify any documented genetic links that might require additional coding.
- Avoid confusion with other types of corneal dystrophies by thoroughly reviewing the patient’s medical history and examination details.