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Unspecified open-angle glaucoma, moderate stage
ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- Unspecified Open-Angle Glaucoma, Moderate Stage
- Also known simply as open-angle glaucoma or chronic open-angle glaucoma.
#### Summary
Open-angle glaucoma is a common form of glaucoma characterized by a gradual increase in eye pressure, which can damage the optic nerve. This condition is moderate when the damage to the optic nerve results in noticeable visual field loss.
#### Causes
Open-angle glaucoma occurs when the drainage canals of the eye become clogged over time, causing increased intraocular pressure. While the exact cause is often unknown, it involves a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors.
#### Risk Factors
- Age: Risk increases after age 40.
- Family History: A higher risk if immediate family members have glaucoma.
- Ethnicity: Higher prevalence in African-Americans, Latinos, and Asians.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes, hypertension, and severe myopia can contribute.
- Long-term steroid use.
#### Symptoms
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision.
- Tunnel vision in advanced stages.
- Often asymptomatic until significant damage occurs.
#### Diagnosis
- Comprehensive eye examination.
- Tonometry to measure intraocular pressure.
- Visual field test to detect loss of peripheral vision.
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT) to examine optic nerve damage.
#### Treatment Options
- Medications: Eye drops to lower intraocular pressure.
- Laser therapy: To improve fluid drainage.
- Surgery: Procedures like trabeculectomy to create a new drainage path.
These treatments help manage intraocular pressure and prevent further optic nerve damage.
#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
With early detection and proper management, vision loss can often be slowed down. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor eye pressure and adjust treatments as necessary.
#### Complications
- Severe vision loss or blindness if left untreated.
- Possible side effects from medications or complications from surgery.
#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Regular eye examinations starting at age 40.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet.
- Avoid smoking and manage systemic health conditions.
#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Noticeable changes in vision, especially peripheral vision loss.
- Sudden onset of eye pain or discomfort.
- Blurred vision or eye redness, which might indicate acute glaucoma.
#### Additional Resources
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (www.aao.org)
- Glaucoma Research Foundation (www.glaucoma.org)
- National Eye Institute (www.nei.nih.gov)
#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Verify the stage of glaucoma; H40.10X2 is specific to the moderate stage.
- Confirm unspecified nature as specific type coding may differ.
- Review patient charts for additional diagnoses that may require separate coding.