Perforated corneal ulcer, left eye
ICD-10 H16.072 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of perforated corneal ulcer, left eye.
H16.072 refers to a perforated corneal ulcer in the left eye, a serious condition characterized by the erosion of the corneal epithelium and stroma, leading to a full-thickness defect. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as severe eye pain, redness, photophobia, and decreased vision. The anatomy involved includes the cornea, which is the transparent front part of the eye, and its surrounding structures, including the conjunctiva and sclera. Disease progression can be rapid, often resulting from infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal), trauma, or underlying conditions like dry eye or autoimmune diseases. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough eye examination, slit-lamp evaluation, and possibly cultures to identify infectious agents. Timely intervention is crucial to prevent complications such as endophthalmitis or vision loss, making accurate diagnosis and coding essential for appropriate management and reimbursement.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
H16.072 specifically covers perforated corneal ulcers in the left eye, which can arise from various etiologies including infections, trauma, or underlying ocular surface diseases. It is critical to differentiate this from non-perforated ulcers and other corneal disorders.
H16.072 should be used when there is clear documentation of a perforated corneal ulcer specifically in the left eye. It is essential to differentiate it from other corneal conditions such as H16.071 for the right eye or H16.079 for unspecified corneal ulcers.
Documentation must include a detailed clinical examination, symptoms reported by the patient, diagnostic imaging results, and treatment plans. Cultures or lab results confirming the cause of the ulcer should also be included to support the diagnosis.
