ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA18.59

A18.59

Other tuberculosis of eye

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 A18.59 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other tuberculosis of eye.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Other tuberculosis of the eye refers to a rare manifestation of tuberculosis (TB) that affects ocular structures, including the conjunctiva, cornea, uvea, and retina. This condition can arise from hematogenous spread of Mycobacterium tuberculosis or direct extension from adjacent structures. Symptoms may include blurred vision, redness, pain, and photophobia. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical examination, imaging studies, and microbiological tests, such as PCR or culture of ocular fluids. Treatment often includes a regimen of anti-tuberculous medications, such as isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide, tailored to the patient's specific needs and drug susceptibility patterns. Monitoring for drug resistance is crucial, as multi-drug resistant TB can complicate treatment. Public health implications are significant, as TB is a communicable disease; thus, contact tracing and isolation procedures may be necessary to prevent transmission. Regular follow-up is essential to assess treatment efficacy and manage any potential complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and symptoms
  • Need for comprehensive diagnostic testing
  • Potential for drug resistance complicating treatment
  • Documentation of public health measures required

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of diagnostic tests
  • Failure to document treatment regimens
  • Lack of follow-up notes on patient progress
  • Insufficient detail on public health measures taken

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on ocular examination findings, diagnostic tests performed, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with unexplained eye symptoms, particularly in areas with high TB prevalence.

Billing Considerations

Ensure thorough documentation of any systemic TB involvement and coordination with infectious disease specialists.

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive records of TB testing, treatment regimens, and monitoring for drug resistance.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with known TB history presenting with ocular symptoms or new TB diagnoses.

Billing Considerations

Collaboration with ophthalmology for integrated care and management of ocular TB.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A18.59 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding tuberculosis, ensuring accurate documentation of the site of infection
  • Include any relevant secondary diagnoses and complications

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A18.59 When
  • Exclude codes for other specific ocular conditions unless they are clearly related to TB

Related CPT Codes

92002CPT Code

Ophthalmological examination, new patient

Clinical Scenario

Used for initial evaluation of a patient suspected of having ocular TB.

Documentation Requirements

Document all findings from the eye examination and any tests performed.

Specialty Considerations

Ophthalmologists should ensure thorough documentation of ocular health and TB history.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ocular tuberculosis, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ocular tuberculosis, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ocular tuberculosis, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Tuberculosis (TB) Fact Sheet

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Tuberculosis (TB) Fact Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of ocular tuberculosis?

Common symptoms include blurred vision, redness, pain, photophobia, and floaters. Patients may also experience systemic symptoms related to tuberculosis.