H40.21
Acute angle-closure glaucoma
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Inclusion Terms
- Acute angle-closure glaucoma attack
- Acute angle-closure glaucoma crisis
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a serious eye condition characterized by sudden and severe increase in intraocular pressure. It occurs when the drainage angle of the eye becomes suddenly blocked, preventing fluid from exiting the eye properly. This leads to a rapid buildup of pressure, which can damage the optic nerve and potentially cause vision loss if not treated promptly. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding its causes are crucial for timely intervention and preservation of vision.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Anatomical features such as a shallow anterior chamber of the eye Sudden pupillary dilation which can block the drainage angle Certain medications that cause pupil dilation Pre-existing narrow angles in the eye's drainage system Family history ofangle-closure glaucoma Age-related changes in eye anatomy Precipitating factors like emotional stress or night lighting conditions
Key Symptoms: Sudden onset of severe eye pain Visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or seeing halos around lights Redness in the affected eye Nausea or vomiting associated with eye pain Headache localized around the eye Dilated pupil that reacts poorly to light Elevated intraocular pressure detected during examination
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist, including measurement of intraocular pressure, gonioscopy to examine the drainage angle, and assessment of the overall health of the optic nerve. Additional tests like ocular ultrasound may be employed for detailed visualization of eye anatomy. Prompt diagnosis is essential due to the sudden and severe nature of this condition.
Treatment Protocols: Treatment aims to quickly reduce intraocular pressure and prevent optic nerve damage. Immediate interventions may include medications such as topical eye drops, oral or intravenous agents to lower eye pressure, and laser or surgical procedures to create an alternative drainage pathway. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the attack and the patient's overall health. Follow-up care is vital to monitor and manage underlying risk factors, and prevent recurrence.
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is H40.21 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, H40.21 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report H40.21?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Acute angle-closure glaucoma and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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