Name of the Condition

• Recurrent Erosion of Cornea, Unspecified Eye
• Also known as Corneal Erosion Syndrome or Recurrent Corneal Erosion (RCE).

Summary

• Recurrent erosion of the cornea is a condition where the outer layer of the cornea repeatedly breaks down, leading to pain and vision disturbances. It is often due to inadequate adherence of the corneal epithelium.

Causes

• It can be caused by previous corneal injuries, such as scratches or abrasions, and may also be linked to underlying conditions like epithelial basement membrane dystrophy.

Risk Factors

• Previous eye trauma, especially scratches or injuries to the cornea.
• Having corneal dystrophies.
• Dry eyes or poor tear film stability.

Symptoms

• Sudden eye pain, especially upon waking.
• Blurred vision.
• Excessive tearing and light sensitivity.
• Redness of the affected eye.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves a clinical examination by an ophthalmologist using a slit lamp to inspect the cornea. Fluorescein dye may be used to highlight corneal disruptions.

Treatment Options

• Artificial tears or lubricating ointments to keep the eye moist.
• Hypertonic saline drops or ointments to reduce edema.
• Use of a bandage contact lens to facilitate healing.
• In severe cases, procedures like anterior stromal puncture, phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK), or debridement may be considered.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Many patients experience symptomatic relief with treatment, although recurrences are common. Regular follow-up with an eye specialist is essential to manage the condition and prevent complications.

Complications

• If left untreated, recurrent erosions can lead to persistent corneal scarring, chronic pain, and, in rare cases, infection or vision loss.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Using protective eyewear to prevent corneal injury.
• Maintaining good eyelid hygiene and regularly using lubricating drops, especially if you wake with dry eyes.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Immediate attention is needed for sudden severe pain, significant vision changes, or persistent eye discomfort.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Ophthalmology (www.aao.org)
• National Eye Institute (www.nei.nih.gov)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure that the condition is not specified for a particular eye before using the unspecified code.
• Double-check for any associated conditions, such as corneal dystrophy, that may also require coding.