H35.363 Drusen (degenerative) of macula, bilateral

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Drusen (degenerative) of the macula, bilateral
- Also known as macular drusen or age-related macular degeneration (AMD) with drusen.

#### Summary
Drusen are tiny yellow or white deposits that form under the retina, specifically in the macula region, which is responsible for sharp central vision. When they occur bilaterally (in both eyes), they may be indicative of early stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a common eye condition among older adults that can affect visual acuity.

#### Causes
Drusen are primarily associated with aging and are considered a natural part of the aging process of the eye. However, the exact cause is not well understood. There may be a genetic predisposition as well.

#### Risk Factors
- Age (more common in individuals over 60)
- Family history of AMD
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Cardiovascular disease

#### Symptoms
- Early stages may have no symptoms.
- As the condition progresses, symptoms may include blurred or reduced central vision.
- Difficulty recognizing faces.
- A need for brighter light when reading or doing close work.

#### Diagnosis
- Comprehensive eye exam including a visual acuity test.
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT) to get detailed images of the retina.
- Fluorescein angiography to check for changes in the blood vessels.

#### Treatment Options
- There is no cure, but certain treatments can slow progression:
  - Dietary supplements high in antioxidants and zinc.
  - Lifestyle changes such as improved diet and quitting smoking.
  - Monitoring and regular eye exams to track progression.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The progression of drusen-related conditions can lead to vision loss over time.
- Regular follow-up with an eye care professional is crucial in monitoring changes and managing the condition effectively.

#### Complications
- Potential development of advanced dry AMD or wet AMD, both of which can cause significant vision loss.
- Possibility of central vision loss affecting daily activities and quality of life.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- A diet rich in leafy greens, fish, and other foods high in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight.
- Avoiding smoking.
- Wear sunglasses to protect eyes from UV damage.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Sudden changes in vision or the appearance of dark spots in the field of vision.
- Noticeable distortion in vision (straight lines appearing wavy).

#### Additional Resources
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (aao.org)
- Macular Degeneration Association (maculardegenerationassociation.org)
- National Eye Institute (nei.nih.gov)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure correct ICD coding by verifying that the diagnosis explicitly states drusen in the macula, and it’s bilateral.
- Be cautious not to confuse with other similar conditions such as unilateral drusen or drusen in other parts of the eye.

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