Name of the Condition

• Chronic angle-closure glaucoma, bilateral, moderate stage

Summary

• Chronic angle-closure glaucoma is an eye condition where fluid in the eye cannot drain properly due to a narrowing or closure of the drainage pathways. This can lead to increased eye pressure, causing damage to the optic nerve and potential vision loss. When the condition is bilateral, it affects both eyes, and in this moderate stage, patients may experience noticeable symptoms impacting their daily life.

Causes

• Chronic angle-closure glaucoma is typically caused by anatomical issues in the eye that lead to narrow or blocked drainage angles. It may also arise from other factors such as trauma, inflammation, or as a complication of certain medications.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors include older age, family history of glaucoma, being of Asian or Inuit descent, farsightedness, and chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension.

Symptoms

• People with this condition may experience blurred vision, eye pain, headaches, halos around lights, and loss of peripheral vision.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis is typically made through comprehensive eye exams, which include measuring intraocular pressure, gonioscopy (examining the angle of the drainage pathways), optical coherence tomography, and visual field tests.

Treatment Options

• Treatment may involve medications such as eye drops to reduce intraocular pressure, laser therapy (e.g., laser peripheral iridotomy), or surgical procedures to improve fluid drainage from the eye. Each treatment aims to prevent further damage to the optic nerve by reducing intraocular pressure.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With timely treatment, the progression of glaucoma can often be slowed, preserving vision. Regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor changes in eye pressure and visual field. Continuous management is necessary to prevent irreversible vision loss.

Complications

• If untreated, chronic angle-closure glaucoma can result in significant optic nerve damage and irreversible vision loss, potentially leading to blindness.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Preventive measures include regular eye exams, particularly if you have risk factors. Protecting eyes from injuries, maintaining overall health through a balanced diet and exercise, and managing chronic health conditions can help manage the condition.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Immediate medical attention is vital if you experience sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, or headache, as these can be signs of acute angle-closure attacks.

Additional Resources

• For further information, consult organizations such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Glaucoma Research Foundation, or patient support groups for individuals with glaucoma.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure precise documentation by confirming the bilaterality and moderate stage of the glaucoma for accurate coding with H40.2232. Avoid common errors such as overlooking stage designation or laterality, which can affect coding accuracy.