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Unspecified intermittent heterotropia
ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- Unspecified Intermittent Heterotropia
- Also known as intermittent strabismus.
#### Summary
- Unspecified intermittent heterotropia is a vision condition where one eye occasionally turns outward or inward while the other focuses correctly. It occurs intermittently, meaning it doesn't happen all the time but comes and goes.
#### Causes
- The exact cause is not well understood. Potential causes include an imbalance in the muscles controlling eye movement or issues with the nerves or brain signals related to vision.
#### Risk Factors
- Family history of strabismus
- Neurological disorders
- Previous uncorrected vision issues
#### Symptoms
- Occasional misalignment of one eye
- Double vision
- Eye strain
- Difficulty focusing on objects
- Headaches
#### Diagnosis
- Comprehensive eye examination
- Cover test to observe eye movement
- Refraction assessment to check for vision clarity
#### Treatment Options
- Prescription glasses or contact lenses to correct vision
- Vision therapy to strengthen eye muscles
- Eye muscle surgery in severe cases to improve alignment
#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The condition is often manageable with proper treatment, leading to improved alignment and reduced symptoms.
- Regular eye exams are crucial to monitor progress and adjust treatments as needed.
#### Complications
- Persistent double vision
- Poor depth perception
- Potential development of permanent misalignment if untreated
#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- There are no specific lifestyle adjustments known to prevent this condition, but regular eye exams can aid early detection and treatment to prevent worsening.
#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Immediate consultation with an eye specialist is advised if you experience double vision, difficulty focusing, or noticeable eye misalignment.
#### Additional Resources
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
- Vision Therapy and Vision Development Organization
#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure precise documentation of the condition, focusing on the intermittent nature.
- Avoid coding errors by distinguishing between intermittent heterotropia and other types of strabismus.