H21.213
Degeneration of chamber angle, bilateral
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Degeneration of the chamber angle, bilateral, is a condition affecting the eye's anterior chamber where the angle between the cornea and iris gradually deteriorates in both eyes. This angle is crucial for eye health because it allows the fluid inside the eye, known as aqueous humor, to drain properly. When degeneration occurs, it can lead to problems with fluid drainage, potentially increasing eye pressure and risking damage to the optic nerve, which can impair vision if left untreated.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Age-related changes, as natural aging can lead to physical deterioration of the eye's structures Genetic predisposition, inherited traits that make certain individuals more vulnerable Chronic eye inflammation or previous eye injuries that cause tissue damage Certain eye conditions such as pseudoexfoliation or pigment dispersion syndromes Increased intraocular pressure over time, which can cause structural changes in the chamber angle
Key Symptoms: Gradual loss of peripheral vision, often unnoticed in early stages Difficulty adjusting to low light conditions or seeing in dim environments Possible eye discomfort or intermittent eye pressure sensations Over time, improved sensitivity to bright lights or halos around lights In advanced cases, signs of glaucoma such as increased intraocular pressure
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a comprehensive eye examination including slit-lamp biomicroscopy to observe the angle structures directly. Gonioscopy is a key procedure where a special lens is used to visualize the chamber angle. Additional tests may include measuring intraocular pressure and imaging studies like ultrasound biomicroscopy or anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) to assess the extent of degeneration and rule out other conditions.
Treatment Protocols: Management strategies focus on monitoring and preventing progression to glaucoma. Options include:
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is H21.213 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, H21.213 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report H21.213?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Degeneration of chamber angle, bilateral and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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