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Other vitreous opacities, bilateral
ICD10CM code
Name of the Condition
- Other Vitreous Opacities, Bilateral (ICD-10-CM Code: H43.393)
Summary
- Vitreous opacities refer to tiny, clouded spots within the vitreous body of the eye, affecting both eyes. These opacities can cause visual disturbances, such as floaters, which are small shapes drifting across the field of vision.
Causes
- Causes can include aging, injury to the eye, inflammation, bleeding within the eye, or certain eye surgeries. Sometimes, the exact cause may not be identified.
Risk Factors
- Advancing age, nearsightedness, eye trauma, and previous surgeries or inflammation in the eye increase the likelihood of developing vitreous opacities.
Symptoms
- Patients typically experience floaters, which appear as small specks or cobweb-like shapes moving in the field of vision. These may be more noticeable when looking at a plain, bright background like a clear sky or a white wall.
Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is usually made through a comprehensive eye examination using specialized instruments that allow for visualizing the vitreous and retina.
Treatment Options
- Often, no treatment is necessary unless floaters significantly impair vision. Options include a procedure called vitrectomy, which removes the vitreous, or laser vitreolysis, which breaks up floaters in the vitreous.
Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The outlook for vision is generally good, with many cases stabilizing or resolving on their own over time. Regular follow-up exams are important to monitor for any changes or complications.
Complications
- Potential complications include retinal detachment or tears if left unmonitored, or if the underlying cause involves significant eye injury or disease.
Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintaining regular eye exams can help in early detection and management of eye conditions that might lead to vitreous opacities. Protecting the eyes from trauma and managing other eye conditions can also be beneficial.
When to Seek Professional Help
- Immediate medical attention is advised if there is a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a loss of peripheral vision, as these could indicate more serious eye conditions.
Additional Resources
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure bilateral involvement is noted, as misclassification could occur if the condition is erroneously billed as unilateral.
- Verify documentation for any underlying or concurrent conditions that could change coding specifics.