H40.2231 Chronic angle-closure glaucoma, bilateral, mild stage

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma, Bilateral, Mild Stage (Medical Term: Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma)

#### Summary
Chronic angle-closure glaucoma is a type of glaucoma where the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked over time, leading to increased eye pressure and potential damage to the optic nerve. This condition often affects both eyes and, in its mild stage, may not show noticeable symptoms but can gradually lead to vision impairment if not managed.

#### Causes
- The development of angle-closure glaucoma can be influenced by anatomical factors, such as a narrow-angle between the iris and cornea.
- Aging may cause lens thickening, which can exacerbate narrow drainage angles.
  
#### Risk Factors
- Older age (typically over 40).
- Family history of glaucoma.
- Asian or Inuit descent.
- Hyperopia (farsightedness).
- Certain medications that can dilate the pupil.

#### Symptoms
- Mild forms may show no symptoms initially.
- Blurred vision and eye pain can occur as the condition progresses.
- Halos around lights, especially in low light conditions.

#### Diagnosis
- Comprehensive eye exams including:
  - Gonioscopy (to examine the angle of the drainage canal).
  - Tonometry (to measure intraocular pressure).
  - Optical coherence tomography (OCT) or visual field tests to assess optic nerve health.

#### Treatment Options
- Medications: Eye drops to reduce intraocular pressure.
- Laser therapy like laser peripheral iridotomy to open blocked drainage angles.
- Surgical interventions in advanced cases to create a new drainage pathway.
  
#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With early detection and treatment, vision preservation is highly possible.
- Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor intraocular pressure and optic nerve health.

#### Complications
- Risk of permanent vision loss or blindness if untreated.
- Development of acute angle-closure glaucoma, which is a medical emergency.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Regular eye examinations, especially for high-risk individuals.
- Avoiding medications that can worsen angle closure.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support overall eye health.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Acute symptoms like sudden eye pain, severe headache, nausea, or sudden vision loss require immediate medical attention.

#### Additional Resources
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
- Glaucoma Research Foundation

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the bilateral aspect and stage of glaucoma are noted for accurate coding.
- Avoid confusing chronic angle-closure glaucoma with primary open-angle glaucoma, which has different coding.

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