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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesB02.33

B02.33

Zoster keratitis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 B02.33 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of zoster keratitis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Zoster keratitis is an ocular complication of herpes zoster (shingles), which is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). This condition typically occurs in individuals who have previously had chickenpox, as the virus remains dormant in the sensory ganglia and can reactivate later in life. Zoster keratitis manifests as inflammation of the cornea and can lead to significant ocular morbidity if not treated promptly. Symptoms may include eye pain, redness, tearing, photophobia, and blurred vision. The condition can be diagnosed through clinical examination, often revealing dendritic ulcers on the cornea, which are characteristic of herpes virus infections. Treatment usually involves antiviral medications, topical corticosteroids, and sometimes pain management. Complications can include corneal scarring, vision loss, and secondary bacterial infections. Vaccination against varicella and herpes zoster is recommended for older adults to reduce the risk of shingles and its complications, including zoster keratitis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of viral infections and their ocular manifestations.
  • Differentiation from other types of keratitis.
  • Documentation of prior chickenpox history may be necessary.
  • Potential for complications that require additional coding.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and history.
  • Failure to note prior varicella infection.
  • Misclassification of keratitis type.
  • Lack of supporting clinical findings in the medical record.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed ocular examination findings, including visual acuity tests and corneal assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with eye pain and a history of shingles.

Billing Considerations

Documentation must clearly indicate the relationship between shingles and keratitis.

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with recurrent herpes zoster infections and ocular involvement.

Billing Considerations

Need for comprehensive history to assess risk factors for reactivation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use B02.33 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines for infectious diseases and ocular conditions
  • Ensure accurate documentation of the patient's history of varicella and the presence of keratitis symptoms

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use B02.33 When
  • Exclude other causes of keratitis

Related CPT Codes

92002CPT Code

Ophthalmological examination, new patient

Clinical Scenario

Used for initial evaluation of zoster keratitis.

Documentation Requirements

Complete eye exam findings and history.

Specialty Considerations

Ophthalmologists should document all relevant ocular symptoms.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of zoster keratitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It emphasizes the need for detailed documentation of the patient's history and symptoms.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of zoster keratitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It emphasizes the need for detailed documentation of the patient's history and symptoms.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It emphasizes the need for detailed documentation of the patient's history and symptoms.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Ophthalmology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Ophthalmology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is zoster keratitis?

Zoster keratitis is an ocular complication resulting from the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, leading to inflammation of the cornea and potential vision loss.