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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ10.4

Q10.4

Billable

Absence and agenesis of lacrimal apparatus

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Q10.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of absence and agenesis of lacrimal apparatus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Absence and agenesis of the lacrimal apparatus is a congenital condition characterized by the failure of development of the lacrimal glands and ducts, which are essential for tear production and drainage. This condition can lead to significant ocular surface issues, including dryness, irritation, and increased risk of infections. The absence of the lacrimal apparatus may occur in isolation or as part of a syndrome involving other congenital malformations, such as anophthalmia (absence of one or both eyes) or microphthalmia (abnormally small eyes). The condition can be diagnosed through clinical examination and imaging studies, which may reveal the absence of the lacrimal structures. Management often involves supportive care, including artificial tears and, in some cases, surgical intervention to create a functional tear drainage system. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to prevent complications associated with ocular surface disease.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and severity of the condition
  • Potential association with other congenital anomalies
  • Need for detailed clinical documentation to support diagnosis
  • Differentiation from acquired conditions affecting the lacrimal apparatus

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of associated congenital anomalies
  • Failure to specify the severity of the condition
  • Misclassification of the condition as acquired
  • Lack of clarity in the clinical rationale for the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Pediatric documentation should include detailed descriptions of the child's ocular health, any associated congenital anomalies, and the impact on daily functioning.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include infants presenting with excessive tearing or eye infections, requiring evaluation for congenital lacrimal duct obstruction or agenesis.

Billing Considerations

Consideration should be given to the developmental milestones of the child and any potential impact on vision and quality of life.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic documentation should include family history, potential syndromic associations, and results from genetic testing if applicable.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may involve genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital eye anomalies or syndromes that include lacrimal apparatus agenesis.

Billing Considerations

Geneticists should be aware of the potential for chromosomal abnormalities that may present with ocular malformations.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q10.4 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, congenital conditions should be coded based on the specific anatomical and functional impairments present
  • Documentation must support the diagnosis and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q10.4 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

68801CPT Code

Dacryocystorhinostomy

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases where surgical intervention is required for congenital lacrimal duct obstruction.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include indications for surgery and pre-operative assessments.

Specialty Considerations

Ophthalmologists should ensure that the surgical necessity is clearly documented.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. Q10.4 provides a clear designation for absence and agenesis of the lacrimal apparatus, facilitating better patient management and research.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. Q10.4 provides a clear designation for absence and agenesis of the lacrimal apparatus, facilitating better patient management and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. Q10.4 provides a clear designation for absence and agenesis of the lacrimal apparatus, facilitating better patient management and research.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common associated conditions with Q10.4?

Common associated conditions include other congenital eye anomalies such as anophthalmia and microphthalmia, as well as syndromic presentations that may involve multiple systems.