H36.823
Proliferative sickle-cell retinopathy, bilateral
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Proliferative sickle-cell retinopathy is a serious eye condition affecting individuals with sickle cell disease, particularly when it affects both eyes. This condition involves abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Recognized under ICD-10 code H36.823, it can lead to vision problems or even blindness if left untreated. It's important for patients diagnosed with sickle cell disease to have regular eye examinations to monitor and manage potential complications.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Sickle cell disease, a hereditary blood disorder characterized by abnormally shaped red blood cells Chronic blood vessel damage within the eye caused by sickled cells obstructing blood flow Progressive blockage of retinal blood vessels leading to hypoxia (lack of oxygen) in retinal tissues Formation of new, fragile blood vessels as a response to oxygen deficiency (neovascularization)
Key Symptoms: Gradual loss of vision in one or both eyes Seeing floaters or dark spots in the visual field Blurred or decreased vision that worsens over time Persistent or new visual disturbances such as shadowing or curtain-like effects Potential pain or redness in the eyes (less common in this condition)
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Retinal photography to document and monitor retinal changes Fluorescein angiography, which uses a special dye to highlight blood flow in retinal vessels Optical coherence tomography (OCT) to assess retinal structure and detect edema or scarring
Treatment Protocols: Laser photocoagulation therapy to destroy abnormal blood vessels and reduce the risk of bleeding Vitrectomy in advanced cases to remove vitreous hemorrhage and scar tissue Monitoring and controlling sickle cell disease with other medical therapies to reduce vascular complications Regular follow-up with an eye specialist to track disease progression
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is H36.823 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, H36.823 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report H36.823?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Proliferative sickle-cell retinopathy, bilateral and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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