Type 1 diabetes mellitus with severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy without macular edema (bilateral)
ICD-10 E10.3493 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus with severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy without macular edema (bilateral).
E10.3493 refers to a specific condition in which a patient has Type 1 diabetes mellitus accompanied by severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy affecting both eyes, but without the presence of macular edema. Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes, resulting from damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to prolonged high blood glucose levels. In severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy, patients may experience significant retinal changes, including microaneurysms, retinal hemorrhages, and exudates, but do not exhibit the more advanced proliferative changes or macular edema that can lead to vision loss. Management of this condition typically involves strict glycemic control, regular ophthalmologic evaluations, and potential interventions to prevent progression. The absence of macular edema is a critical distinction, as it indicates a lower risk of immediate vision impairment compared to cases with macular edema. Regular monitoring of HbA1c levels is essential to assess long-term glucose control, with targets generally set below 7% for most adults to minimize complications.
Comprehensive diabetes management records, including HbA1c levels and treatment plans.
Patients with poorly controlled diabetes presenting with complications.
Ensure documentation reflects the relationship between diabetes control and retinopathy severity.
Detailed eye examination reports, including findings related to retinopathy.
Routine diabetic eye exams showing progression of retinopathy.
Document the absence of macular edema clearly to support coding.
Used during routine eye exams for diabetic patients.
Document findings of retinopathy and any interventions.
Ophthalmologists should ensure detailed notes on retinopathy severity.
Specifying 'without macular edema' is crucial as it indicates a lower risk of vision loss compared to cases with macular edema. This distinction affects treatment decisions and coding accuracy.
Patients with severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy should be monitored at least annually, or more frequently if their diabetes is poorly controlled or if there are changes in their vision.
