Name of the Condition

• Anatomical Narrow Angle, Bilateral
  • Also known as: Bilateral narrow angles, Narrow angle glaucoma risk.

Summary

Anatomical Narrow Angle, Bilateral refers to a condition where both eyes have an abnormally narrow angle between the iris and the cornea. This can impede the flow of aqueous humor, potentially increasing the risk for angle-closure glaucoma, a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss.

Causes

• Genetic predisposition is a significant factor.
• Normal aging processes can cause lens growth, narrowing the angle.
• Structural variations in the anatomy of the eye.

Risk Factors

• Family history of narrow angle or angle-closure glaucoma.
• Advanced age, particularly over 40 years.
• Being of Asian or Inuit descent.
• Farsightedness (hyperopia).

Symptoms

• Often asymptomatic until acute angle-closure occurs.
• Possible blurry vision or vision disturbances under certain lighting conditions.
• Occasional mild eye discomfort.

Diagnosis

• Comprehensive eye exam including gonioscopy, to evaluate the angle.
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for detailed imaging of the eye's structure.
• Medical history and subjective patient reporting for initial assessments.

Treatment Options

• Medications: To manage intraocular pressure.
• Laser Iridotomy: Creating a small hole in the iris to improve fluid drainage.
• Surgery: In cases where laser treatments are not effective or possible.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Regular monitoring is essential to prevent progression to angle-closure glaucoma.
• Prognosis is generally good with early detection and management.
• Regular follow-up visits to monitor eye health and adjust treatment plans.

Complications

• Acute angle-closure glaucoma, which can rapidly lead to vision loss.
• Potential for increased intraocular pressure leading to optic nerve damage.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Regular eye examinations, especially if you're at higher risk.
• Alertness to symptoms during activities that may dilate pupils, such as reading in dim light.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Sudden vision loss or severe eye pain.
• Halos around lights or sudden blurred vision.
• Nausea or headache alongside eye symptoms.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Ophthalmology
• Glaucoma Research Foundation
• Patient support groups in local communities or online platforms.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the correct laterality is documented since this code is specified for bilateral conditions.
• Cross-reference with any recorded episodes of angle-closure to properly capture patient history.
• Avoid confusing with primary angle-closure glaucoma, which requires separate coding.