Corneal ectasia, unspecified eye
ICD10CM code
Name of the Condition
- Corneal Ectasia, Unspecified Eye
- Also known as Post-LASIK Ectasia, Keratectasia, or Corneal Bulging.
Summary
Corneal ectasia is a progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. It can cause visual distortion and is commonly associated with complications following laser eye surgery such as LASIK.
Causes
The main cause of corneal ectasia is structural weakness in the corneal tissue. This can occur due to:
- Surgical procedures like LASIK or PRK.
- Pre-existing corneal conditions such as Keratoconus.
- Unidentified genetic predispositions that weaken corneal stability.
Risk Factors
- Undergoing refractive surgery (e.g., LASIK).
- Pre-existing corneal abnormalities.
- Genetic predispositions.
- Thin corneas prior to surgery.
Symptoms
- Blurred or distorted vision.
- Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia).
- Difficulty seeing at night.
- Halos and glare around lights.
Diagnosis
- Corneal topography to map the surface curvature of the eye.
- Pachymetry to measure corneal thickness.
- Visual acuity tests to determine the extent of vision affected.
Treatment Options
- Contact Lenses: Specialized lenses can help improve vision.
- Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking: A procedure to strengthen corneal tissue.
- Intrastromal Corneal Ring Segments: Implants to flatten the cornea and improve vision.
- Corneal Transplant: In advanced cases, a transplant may be necessary.
Prognosis and Follow-Up
With timely intervention, the progression can be slowed, and vision improvements are possible, though complete restoration to perfect vision may not always be achievable. Regular monitoring with an eye care specialist is crucial for managing the condition effectively.
Complications
- Progressive vision loss.
- Irregular astigmatism, affecting vision quality.
- Scarring or further thinning of the cornea if untreated.
Lifestyle & Prevention
- Avoiding elective eye surgery if predisposed to corneal weakness.
Regular eye exams to catch early signs of vision changes.
When to Seek Professional Help
Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing sudden worsening of vision, severe pain, or indications of severe corneal distortion.
Additional Resources
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accurate documentation specifying the eye involved if possible, even though this ICD code specifies 'unspecified eye.'
- Be cautious not to confuse with similar conditions like Keratoconus that have separate ICD classifications.