H18.813
Anesthesia and hypoesthesia of cornea, bilateral
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Bilateral anesthesia and hypoesthesia of the cornea refer to a condition where both corneas of the eyes have diminished or lost sensation. This condition can significantly impact eye health, potentially leading to dryness, injuries, or infections due to reduced protective reflexes such as blinking and tearing. It may result from nerve damage or underlying systemic conditions affecting nerve function.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Nerve injury due to trauma or surgery affecting the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve Herpes simplex virus or herpes zoster affecting corneal nerves Neurodegenerative diseases, such as multiple sclerosis Diabetic neuropathy causing nerve damage Use of topical or systemic medications that affect nerve sensation Brain or cranial nerve lesions impacting nerve pathways to the cornea
Key Symptoms: Reduced or absent sensation in the cornea of both eyes Increased risk of eye dryness and irritation Potential development of corneal ulcers or injuries unnoticed due to lack of sensation Blurred vision or discomfort in the eyes Decreased reflex blinking which normally protects the eye
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye examination, including tests to assess corneal sensation such as the Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer. Medical history reviews and neurological assessments may also be performed to identify underlying causes. Additional testing, like fluorescein staining, can be used to detect corneal damage resulting from decreased sensation.
Treatment Protocols: Treatment focuses on protecting the cornea and managing any underlying causes. Approaches might include:
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is H18.813 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, H18.813 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report H18.813?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Anesthesia and hypoesthesia of cornea, bilateral and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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