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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH04.123

H04.123

Billable

Dry eye syndrome of bilateral lacrimal glands

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 H04.123 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of dry eye syndrome of bilateral lacrimal glands.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Dry eye syndrome of bilateral lacrimal glands is characterized by insufficient tear production or excessive tear evaporation, leading to ocular discomfort, inflammation, and potential damage to the ocular surface. The lacrimal glands, located in the upper outer region of each orbit, are responsible for tear secretion. In dry eye syndrome, these glands may be compromised due to various factors including age, environmental conditions, autoimmune diseases, or prolonged screen time. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as dryness, burning sensation, redness, and blurred vision. Disease progression can lead to chronic inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea, increasing the risk of secondary infections. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, symptom questionnaires, and tests such as tear break-up time and Schirmer's test to assess tear production. Treatment options may involve artificial tears, anti-inflammatory medications, or punctal plugs to retain moisture. Understanding the anatomy of the lacrimal system and its role in maintaining ocular health is crucial for effective management of this condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires comprehensive assessment of symptoms and potential underlying conditions.
  • Treatment complexity: Involves a range of therapeutic options and may require interdisciplinary management.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and test results are necessary for accurate coding.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate from other ocular conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of unilateral vs. bilateral conditions.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete patient history or lack of diagnostic test results.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to insufficient evidence of medical necessity.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Primary care

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Dry eye syndrome significantly affects patient quality of life, leading to increased healthcare utilization due to frequent visits for symptom management. It is prevalent among older adults and can be exacerbated by environmental factors, making it a public health concern. Effective management of this condition is crucial for improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden on healthcare systems.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Dry eye syndrome significantly affects patient quality of life, leading to increased healthcare utilization due to frequent visits for symptom management. It is prevalent among older adults and can be exacerbated by environmental factors, making it a public health concern. Effective management of this condition is crucial for improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden on healthcare systems.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

impact of the condition on the patient's quality of life. It is advisable to use modifiers when necessary to indicate the bilateral nature of the condition, and to stay updated on payer-specific guidelines for reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for H00-H99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for H00-H99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by H04.123?

H04.123 specifically covers dry eye syndrome affecting both lacrimal glands, which may be due to various etiologies such as Sjögren's syndrome, environmental factors, or medication side effects. It is essential to differentiate this from other forms of dry eye that may not involve bilateral lacrimal gland dysfunction.

When should H04.123 be used instead of related codes?

H04.123 should be used when the patient exhibits symptoms of dry eye syndrome affecting both eyes and has been diagnosed with bilateral lacrimal gland involvement. If the condition is unilateral, the appropriate unilateral code (H04.121 or H04.122) should be selected.

What documentation supports H04.123?

Documentation should include a detailed patient history, symptom assessment, results from diagnostic tests (e.g., tear break-up time, Schirmer's test), and any treatment plans. This information is critical to substantiate the diagnosis of bilateral dry eye syndrome.