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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesA59.0

A59.0

Trachoma due to Chlamydia trachomatis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 A59.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of trachoma due to chlamydia trachomatis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Trachoma is a chronic infectious disease of the eye caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea, leading to scarring and potential blindness if left untreated. Trachoma is primarily transmitted through direct contact with eye discharge from infected individuals or through contaminated objects. It is a significant public health concern in many developing countries, where it is often associated with poor sanitation and hygiene practices. The disease progresses through stages, starting with mild conjunctivitis, advancing to more severe inflammation, and ultimately resulting in scarring of the eyelid and cornea. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical examination, and treatment involves the use of antibiotics, such as azithromycin, to eliminate the infection. Public health strategies also emphasize the importance of hygiene education and environmental improvements to reduce transmission.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between trachoma and other conjunctival infections
  • Understanding the epidemiology and transmission routes
  • Documenting the presence of complications such as scarring
  • Co-morbid conditions that may affect treatment and coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to document patient history related to exposure
  • Lack of follow-up care documentation
  • Misclassification of the condition with other eye diseases

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed examination findings, treatment plans, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with conjunctival scarring, recurrent infections, or complications from trachoma.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the chronic nature of the disease and any surgical interventions.

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

History of exposure, laboratory test results, and treatment response.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with recurrent trachoma infections or those requiring systemic antibiotic therapy.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the epidemiological context and potential for transmission to others.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A59.0 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding infectious diseases
  • 0 should be used when the diagnosis is confirmed and documented
  • Ensure to include any relevant complications or co
  • morbidities

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A59.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

92014CPT Code

Ophthalmological examination, established patient

Clinical Scenario

Used during follow-up visits for patients with trachoma.

Documentation Requirements

Document the examination findings and treatment plan.

Specialty Considerations

Ophthalmologists should ensure comprehensive documentation of the patient's history and clinical findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of trachoma, improving the ability to track and manage this public health issue. It emphasizes the need for detailed documentation of the disease's progression and treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of trachoma, improving the ability to track and manage this public health issue. It emphasizes the need for detailed documentation of the disease's progression and treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of trachoma, improving the ability to track and manage this public health issue. It emphasizes the need for detailed documentation of the disease's progression and treatment outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    World Health Organization - Trachoma

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    World Health Organization - Trachoma

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cause of trachoma?

Trachoma is primarily caused by repeated infections with the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which leads to chronic inflammation and scarring of the eye.