Panuveitis, Left Eye (ICD Code: H44.112)

Name of the Condition

• Panuveitis, Left Eye: This condition is also known as diffuse uveitis, involving inflammation of all three uveal tracts of the eye (iris, ciliary body, and choroid) in the left eye.

Summary

• Panuveitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the entire uveal tract of the eye, leading to pain, redness, and potential vision loss if not treated. The inflammation encompasses the iris, ciliary body, and choroid, impacting ocular health.

Causes

• Panuveitis can be caused by a variety of factors including autoimmune disorders, infections (such as tuberculosis or syphilis), and systemic inflammatory diseases like sarcoidosis. It may also be idiopathic, where no specific cause is identified.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors include having an autoimmune disease, a history of eye infections, and systemic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or sarcoidosis. Genetic predispositions and environmental triggers can also be involved.

Symptoms

• Patients may experience blurred vision, eye redness, photophobia (sensitivity to light), eye pain, and floaters. Vision loss can occur in severe cases if not properly managed.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination, including slit-lamp and dilated fundus examination. Additional tests may include blood tests, imaging studies like optical coherence tomography (OCT), and sometimes fluorescein angiography to assess retinal blood flow.

Treatment Options

• Treatment often includes corticosteroid eye drops to reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs might be required. Treating underlying systemic diseases is also crucial. Local treatments such as periocular steroid injections can be used for persistent inflammation.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With prompt and appropriate treatment, the inflammation can be controlled, and the prognosis is generally good. However, regular follow-up is essential to monitor for recurrence and manage long-term complications such as glaucoma or cataracts.

Complications

• If untreated, panuveitis can lead to complications such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular edema, or permanent vision loss. Chronic inflammation can also cause structural damage to the eye.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that supports immune function, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help. For those with underlying systemic diseases, managing these conditions effectively is crucial. Preventive eye care and routine screenings are advised.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Individuals should seek immediate medical attention if they experience sudden vision changes, eye pain, or persistent redness and swelling, as these can indicate severe inflammation or complications.

Additional Resources

• Resources such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and support groups for uveitis can provide further information and support for patients.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate coding by confirming whether the condition affects the left eye or both eyes. Be attentive to the laterality (left, right, bilateral) to avoid coding errors. Double-check for any systemic conditions that might necessitate additional coding.