Find comprehensive information on Dry Eye, also known as Dry Eye Syndrome, Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca, and Tear Film Insufficiency. This resource offers guidance on diagnosis codes, clinical documentation tips for Dry Eye, and best practices for healthcare professionals. Learn about Dry Eye symptoms, treatment, and medical coding for accurate reimbursement. Explore resources for Dry Eye management and improve patient care with evidence-based information for healthcare providers.
Also known as
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca
Dry eye due to tear film insufficiency.
Other keratoconjunctivitis
Includes other specified and unspecified forms of keratoconjunctivitis.
Diseases of the eye and adnexa
Encompasses various eye conditions including dry eye related disorders.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the dry eye due to Sjogren's syndrome?
Yes
Code M35.0 (Sjogren's syndrome with keratoconjunctivitis sicca)
No
Is the dry eye medicamentosa?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Dry eyes, insufficient tear film. |
| Meibomian gland dysfunction, impacts tear film. |
| Sjogren's syndrome, autoimmune dry eyes and mouth. |
Coding dry eye without laterality or severity may lead to claim denials. CDI should query for details.
Associated conditions like Sjogren's syndrome or blepharitis may be missed, impacting reimbursement and quality metrics.
Miscoding meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) as simple dry eye can affect severity and treatment documentation.
Q: What are the most effective diagnostic tests for differentiating aqueous deficient dry eye from evaporative dry eye in clinical practice?
A: Differentiating between aqueous deficient and evaporative dry eye is crucial for targeted treatment. Schirmer's test, while a common initial screening tool for tear production, primarily assesses aqueous deficiency. For evaporative dry eye, assess tear film break-up time (TBUT) using fluorescein dye. Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a major contributor to evaporative dry eye, can be evaluated by examining gland expression and assessing meibum quality. More advanced techniques, like meibography and lipid interferometry, can provide detailed images of the meibomian glands and tear film lipid layer. Consider implementing a combination of these tests for a comprehensive dry eye evaluation and to guide personalized treatment strategies. Explore how advanced diagnostic tools can enhance your dry eye practice.
Q: How can I effectively manage dry eye disease in patients with concurrent systemic autoimmune conditions like Sjogren's syndrome?
A: Managing dry eye in patients with Sjogren's syndrome or other autoimmune diseases requires a multi-faceted approach. Start by addressing the underlying inflammation with systemic medications prescribed by a rheumatologist, as dry eye in these cases often stems from autoimmune-mediated inflammation of the lacrimal glands. Artificial tears, particularly those containing preservatives like benzalkonium chloride, can exacerbate irritation and should be used cautiously. Preservative-free artificial tears, gels, and ointments can provide symptomatic relief. Punctal plugs can be considered to increase tear retention. In severe cases, explore immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion. Learn more about the interplay between systemic autoimmune disease and ocular surface health to optimize patient care.
Patient presents with complaints consistent with dry eye syndrome, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca and tear film insufficiency. Symptoms include ocular dryness, burning, foreign body sensation, grittiness, itching, redness, and blurred vision. On examination, tear film breakup time was reduced. Schirmer's test results indicated diminished tear production. Conjunctival injection and corneal staining with fluorescein were observed. The patient reports increased symptoms with prolonged visual tasks, such as computer use and reading, as well as in dry or windy environments. Differential diagnoses considered included blepharitis and allergic conjunctivitis. Based on the patient's symptoms, examination findings, and medical history, a diagnosis of dry eye disease is made. The patient was educated on the importance of artificial tears for dry eye management and prescribed preservative-free lubricating eye drops for use several times daily. Recommendations were also provided for environmental modifications, including increasing humidity and taking frequent breaks from digital screens. The patient was advised to follow up for reassessment of symptoms and adjustment of the treatment plan as needed. ICD-10 code K10.20 will be used for billing purposes.