Search all medical codes
Exudative age-related macular degeneration, right eye, stage unspecified
ICD10CM code
Name of the Condition
- Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration, Right Eye, Stage Unspecified (ICD-10: H35.3210)
- Also known as Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD).
Summary
Exudative age-related macular degeneration is a chronic eye condition characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the macula, leading to leakage of blood or fluid. This can cause rapid and severe vision loss, particularly in the central field of vision. The specific code H35.3210 pertains to the unspecified stage of this condition in the right eye.
Causes
- Growth of abnormal, leaky blood vessels under the retina.
- Aging and degeneration of macular tissue.
- Genetic predispositions and environmental factors.
Risk Factors
- Advanced age, typically over 50 years.
- Family history of AMD.
- Smoking and uncontrolled cardiovascular disease.
- High blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light.
Symptoms
- Blurred or distorted vision.
- Dark spots in the central vision.
- Difficulty recognizing faces.
- Sudden vision loss in one eye.
Diagnosis
- Comprehensive eye exam.
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT) to visualize the retina.
- Fluorescein angiography to detect blood vessel leakage.
- Amsler grid test to identify vision distortions.
Treatment Options
- Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) injections to inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels.
- Photodynamic therapy to seal leaky vessels and halt progression.
- Laser surgery in select cases to destroy blood vessels causing deterioration.
- Adaptation tools and support for vision impairment.
Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Outcomes vary; early treatment can slow progression significantly.
- Regular follow-up with an ophthalmologist is crucial to monitor changes and adjust treatment plans.
- Vision aids and rehabilitation may help optimize remaining vision.
Complications
- Severe and permanent central vision loss if untreated.
- Potential for scarring and subsequent retinal detachment.
- Impact on quality of life and daily activities.
Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintain a diet rich in leafy greens, fruits, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Cease smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
- Regular cardiovascular exercises to improve overall blood health.
- Use sunglasses to protect eyes from ultraviolet exposure.
When to Seek Professional Help
- Sudden onset of blurry or distorted vision.
- New dark spots or vision loss.
- Any noticeable changes in vision should prompt immediate medical attention.
Additional Resources
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the laterality (right eye) is correctly noted.
- Confirm the stage is unspecified when using H35.3210.
- Avoid confusion with dry AMD or bilateral cases which have separate codes.