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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesB02.31

B02.31

Zoster conjunctivitis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 B02.31 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of zoster conjunctivitis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Zoster conjunctivitis is an ocular manifestation of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) reactivation, commonly known as shingles. This condition occurs when the virus, which remains dormant in the sensory ganglia after a primary infection (chickenpox), reactivates and spreads to the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve. Clinically, zoster conjunctivitis presents with symptoms such as redness, tearing, photophobia, and potential vision changes. The conjunctiva may exhibit vesicular lesions, and there may be associated keratitis or uveitis. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by the patient's history of varicella infection and the characteristic rash. Prompt recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent complications such as postherpetic neuralgia or vision loss. Antiviral therapy, such as acyclovir, is typically initiated to reduce the severity and duration of the symptoms. Vaccination against VZV, particularly with the shingles vaccine, is recommended for older adults to reduce the risk of reactivation and subsequent complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires knowledge of viral infections and their ocular manifestations.
  • Differentiation from other conjunctivitis types (bacterial, allergic).
  • Documentation of patient history regarding varicella infection.
  • Potential for complications that may require additional coding.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the patient's varicella history.
  • Failure to document associated symptoms or complications.
  • Incorrect linkage of diagnosis to treatment codes.
  • Misidentification of the type of conjunctivitis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed ocular examination findings, including visual acuity and presence of vesicular lesions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with eye pain, redness, and a history of shingles.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation includes the extent of ocular involvement and any associated complications.

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

History of varicella infection, current symptoms, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with shingles experiencing ocular symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Document the rationale for antiviral therapy and any follow-up plans.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use B02.31 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the patient's history and clinical findings
  • Include any relevant complications or associated conditions in coding

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use B02.31 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

92002CPT Code

Ophthalmological examination, new patient

Clinical Scenario

Used when a new patient presents with zoster conjunctivitis for evaluation.

Documentation Requirements

Complete eye examination findings and history.

Specialty Considerations

Ophthalmologists should document the extent of ocular involvement.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of zoster conjunctivitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of zoster conjunctivitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Varicella-Zoster Virus Information

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Varicella-Zoster Virus Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of zoster conjunctivitis?

Symptoms include redness of the eye, tearing, photophobia, and possible vision changes, often accompanied by a vesicular rash.

How is zoster conjunctivitis treated?

Treatment typically involves antiviral medications such as acyclovir, along with symptomatic relief for eye discomfort.