H40.213
Acute angle-closure glaucoma, bilateral
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a sudden and serious eye condition that can cause rapid vision loss if not treated promptly. When it affects both eyes simultaneously, it is referred to as bilateral, which can significantly impact a person's quality of life. This condition involves a sudden increase in intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eye) due to a blockage of the drainage angle of the eye. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for early intervention and preservation of vision.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Anatomical variations in eye structures that obstruct fluid drainage Shallow anterior chamber (the space in front of the iris) Hyperopia (farsightedness), which can contribute to narrow angles Age-related changes leading to angle narrowing Pupil dilation during sleep or under stress, which can precipitate an attack Certain medications that cause pupil dilation, such as anticholinergics or antihistamines Family history of angle-closure glaucoma Other eye conditions that affect the contours of the anterior chamber
Key Symptoms: Sudden, severe eye pain Headache around the eyes Nausea and vomiting Seeing haloes or rainbow-colored rings around lights Sudden decrease in vision or blurred vision Redness of the affected eye A feeling of fullness or pressure in the eyes Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination, including measurements of intraocular pressure using tonometry. The eye care professional will examine the drainage angle through gonioscopy, assess the corneal clarity, and evaluate the overall health of the optic nerve. Visual field tests may be performed to determine any loss of peripheral vision, and imaging modalities might be used to aid in assessment. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent permanent vision loss.
Treatment Protocols: Emergency administration of medications such as eye drops, oral, or intravenous drugs to lower eye pressure Laser peripheral iridotomy: a laser procedure that creates a small hole in the iris to improve fluid flow Medications to decrease aqueous humor production, such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors or beta-blockers Surgical procedures if medication and laser treatments are insufficient Post-treatment monitoring to manage intraocular pressure and prevent recurrence
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is H40.213 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, H40.213 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report H40.213?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Acute angle-closure glaucoma, bilateral and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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