ICD-10-CM Billable Code

H11.439

Conjunctival hyperemia, unspecified eye

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

Conjunctival hyperemia, commonly referred to as eye redness, occurs when the blood vessels on the surface of the eye become dilated or inflamed. This condition results in a conspicuous reddening of the eye and can affect one or both eyes. The ICD-10 code H11.439 corresponds to cases where the redness is present but the specific eye (left, right, or both) has not been specified. It is a common clinical finding that can result from various causes ranging from mild irritation to infections or other eye conditions. Understanding the underlying factors and symptoms can help in managing this condition effectively.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Allergic reactions, such as hay fever or allergic conjunctivitis Eye strain from prolonged screen time or lack of sleep Irritants like smoke, dust, or chemicals Infections, including viral, bacterial, or fungal conjunctivitis Dry eyes due to tear production issues or environmental factors Contact lens wear, especially if not hygienically maintained Injury or trauma to the eye surface Underlying systemic conditions, such as autoimmune diseases

Key Symptoms: Redness or bloodshot appearance of the eye A gritty or sandy sensation Tearing or watery eyes Itching or burning sensation Discharge from the eye, which may be clear, mucus-like, or purulent Sensitivity to light (photophobia) Swelling around the eyes Blurred vision in some cases

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosing conjunctival hyperemia involves a comprehensive eye examination by a healthcare provider. The process may include:

Treatment Protocols: Treatment strategies depend on the underlying cause of the hyperemia. Common approaches include:

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is H11.439 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, H11.439 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report H11.439?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Conjunctival hyperemia, unspecified eye and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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