H18.813 Anesthesia and hypoesthesia of cornea, bilateral

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Anesthesia and Hypoesthesia of Cornea, Bilateral
- ICD Code: H18.813

#### Summary
Anesthesia and hypoesthesia of the cornea refer to a reduction or complete loss of sensation in both corneas, the clear front layer of the eye. This condition can affect blinking and tear production, potentially leading to eye health issues if not addressed.

#### Causes
The condition can be caused by trauma, surgical procedures, infections (such as herpes simplex keratitis), or diseases affecting the nerves that supply the cornea, like diabetes or multiple sclerosis.

#### Risk Factors
- History of corneal surgery or trauma
- Chronic eye infections
- Neurological conditions 
- Use of contact lenses
- Certain medications

#### Symptoms
- Decreased sensitivity to touch in the corneas
- Dryness or irritation of the eyes
- Unnoticed foreign bodies in the eye
- Blurred vision due to corneal damage

#### Diagnosis
Diagnosis usually involves a thorough eye examination by an ophthalmologist, including:
- Slit-lamp examination
- Corneal sensitivity testing using special tools
- Review of medical history and symptoms

#### Treatment Options
- Lubricating eye drops or ointments to manage dryness
- Treatment of underlying conditions causing the sensory loss
- Regular monitoring and management of corneal health
These treatments help to preserve eye function and comfort.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
The prognosis can vary based on the underlying cause, but regular follow-up with an eye specialist is crucial to prevent complications. Long-term management may be necessary.

#### Complications
- Increased risk of corneal ulcers and infections
- Vision impairment if the corneal surface is damaged
- Potential for chronic dry eye syndrome

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Regular eye check-ups
- Proper management of systemic conditions like diabetes
- Immediate treatment of eye infections or injuries

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Sudden loss of vision or changes in visual clarity
- Persistent eye pain or redness
- Presence of foreign body sensation in the eye without apparent cause

#### Additional Resources
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (aao.org)
- National Eye Institute (nei.nih.gov)
- Cornea Research Foundation of America (cornearf.org)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accurate documentation of bilateral involvement.
- Cross-reference patient history for any associated systemic conditions.
- Avoid miscoding by distinguishing between unilateral and bilateral conditions.

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