Name of the Condition

• Recurrent Acute Iridocyclitis, Left Eye
• Also known as: Anterior Uveitis

Summary

Recurrent acute iridocyclitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the iris and ciliary body in the eye. It specifically pertains to repeated episodes of inflammation in the left eye. This condition can cause discomfort and can affect vision if not treated properly.

Causes

Recurrent acute iridocyclitis can be triggered by various factors, including autoimmune disorders (like ankylosing spondylitis or rheumatoid arthritis), infections (such as herpes simplex virus), or trauma to the eye. In some cases, the exact cause remains unknown.

Risk Factors

• Autoimmune diseases
• Family history of uveitis or autoimmune conditions
• Previous eye injuries or surgeries
• Systemic infections

Symptoms

• Redness in the eye
• Eye pain or discomfort
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Blurred vision
• Excessive tearing

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically made through:

• A thorough eye examination using a slit lamp microscope
• Possible blood tests to identify underlying systemic conditions
• Imaging tests like ocular ultrasound if needed

Treatment Options

• Corticosteroid eye drops to reduce inflammation
• Cycloplegic drops to alleviate pain and prevent muscle spasms
• Oral medications if eye drops are not enough
• Immunosuppressive drugs for severe or systemic cases These treatments aim to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent further episodes.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Recurrent acute iridocyclitis can generally be managed effectively with prompt treatment, though some individuals may experience recurrent episodes. Regular follow-ups with an ophthalmologist are crucial to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as necessary.

Complications

If left untreated, complications can include glaucoma, cataracts, or even permanent vision loss due to persistent inflammation and structural damage to the eye.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Wearing protective eyewear to prevent trauma
• Managing underlying systemic conditions effectively
• Avoiding known triggers if possible
• Regular eye examinations to catch early signs of inflammation

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing sudden and severe eye pain, significant changes in vision, or persistent redness and discomfort in the eye.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Ophthalmology (www.aao.org)
• Uveitis Information Group (www.uveitis.net)
• National Eye Institute (www.nei.nih.gov)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the laterality (left eye) is correctly documented when coding for H20.022.
• Be aware of the specific terminology: "recurrent" and "acute" indicate repeated and sudden occurrences.
• Avoid coding errors by distinguishing from similar conditions affecting the eye or the right eye specifically.