ICD-10: H11.823

Conjunctivochalasis, bilateral, is classified under the ICD-10-CM code H11.823. This condition involves the presence of excess conjunctival tissue that can lead to various ocular symptoms and complications. Below is a detailed clinical description and relevant information regarding this diagnosis.

Clinical Description of Conjunctivochalasis

Definition

Conjunctivochalasis refers to the redundant or excess conjunctival tissue that is not properly anchored to the underlying sclera. This condition can occur in one or both eyes, with bilateral cases being denoted by the ICD-10 code H11.823. The excess tissue can fold over itself, leading to irritation and discomfort.

Symptoms

Patients with bilateral conjunctivochalasis may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Ocular Discomfort: Patients often report a sensation of dryness or irritation in the eyes.
- Foreign Body Sensation: The redundant tissue can create a feeling that something is in the eye.
- Tearing: Increased tear production may occur as a response to irritation.
- Redness: The eyes may appear red due to inflammation or irritation.
- Visual Disturbances: In some cases, the condition can interfere with vision, particularly if the conjunctival folds obstruct the visual axis.

Etiology

Conjunctivochalasis is often associated with aging, as the conjunctiva can lose elasticity over time. Other contributing factors may include:
- Chronic Inflammation: Conditions such as dry eye syndrome or allergic conjunctivitis can lead to conjunctival changes.
- Previous Eye Surgery: Surgical procedures, particularly those involving the eyelids or conjunctiva, can predispose individuals to this condition.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to irritants or allergens may exacerbate symptoms.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of bilateral conjunctivochalasis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination. An ophthalmologist will assess the conjunctiva's appearance and may perform additional tests to evaluate tear production and overall ocular health. The use of ocular photography may assist in documenting the condition and guiding treatment decisions[3][4].

Treatment Options

Management of conjunctivochalasis may vary based on the severity of symptoms and the impact on the patient's quality of life. Treatment options include:
- Lubricating Eye Drops: Artificial tears can help alleviate dryness and discomfort.
- Surgical Intervention: In cases where symptoms are severe or persistent, surgical options such as conjunctival resection may be considered to remove excess tissue and improve ocular comfort.
- Addressing Underlying Conditions: Treating any associated conditions, such as dry eye syndrome, can also help manage symptoms.

Conclusion

Bilateral conjunctivochalasis (ICD-10 code H11.823) is a condition characterized by excess conjunctival tissue that can lead to discomfort and visual disturbances. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is essential for effective management. Patients experiencing symptoms should consult an ophthalmologist for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Conjunctivochalasis, bilateral, is a condition characterized by the presence of redundant conjunctival tissue that can lead to various ocular symptoms. This condition is classified under the ICD-10-CM code H11.823. Below is a detailed overview of its clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics.

Clinical Presentation

Definition

Conjunctivochalasis refers to the excess conjunctival tissue that can fold over itself, often leading to discomfort and visual disturbances. When bilateral, it affects both eyes, which can exacerbate symptoms and impact the patient's quality of life.

Patient Characteristics

• Age: Conjunctivochalasis is more commonly observed in older adults, particularly those over the age of 50, due to age-related changes in the conjunctiva and eyelid structures[1].
• Gender: There is no significant gender predisposition, although some studies suggest a slightly higher prevalence in females[1].
• Medical History: Patients may have a history of dry eye syndrome, previous ocular surgeries, or conditions that affect tear production, such as Sjögren's syndrome[1][2].

Signs and Symptoms

Common Symptoms

1. Ocular Discomfort: Patients often report a sensation of foreign body presence in the eye, which can lead to irritation and discomfort[2].
2. Redness: The affected conjunctiva may appear red or inflamed due to irritation[1].
3. Tearing: Increased tear production can occur as a reflex response to irritation, although paradoxically, some patients may experience dry eyes due to poor tear film stability[2].
4. Visual Disturbances: Patients may experience blurred vision, particularly if the redundant conjunctival tissue interferes with the cornea or eyelid function[1][2].
5. Eyelid Symptoms: Patients may also report eyelid heaviness or fatigue, especially after prolonged visual tasks[1].

Signs on Examination

• Conjunctival Folds: Upon examination, ophthalmologists may observe folds or redundant tissue in the conjunctiva, particularly in the lower fornix[2].
• Tear Film Instability: Tests may reveal instability in the tear film, contributing to symptoms of dryness and discomfort[1].
• Inflammation: Signs of conjunctival inflammation may be present, including hyperemia and edema[2].

Conclusion

Bilateral conjunctivochalasis (ICD-10 code H11.823) is a condition primarily affecting older adults, characterized by excess conjunctival tissue leading to discomfort, redness, tearing, and potential visual disturbances. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, and symptoms is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management. Patients experiencing these symptoms should seek evaluation from an eye care professional for appropriate treatment options, which may include lubricating eye drops, surgical intervention, or other therapeutic measures to alleviate discomfort and improve visual function.

Conjunctivochalasis, bilateral, identified by the ICD-10 code H11.823, is a condition characterized by the redundancy of conjunctival tissue, which can lead to discomfort and visual disturbances. Understanding alternative names and related terms for this condition can enhance communication among healthcare professionals and improve patient education. Below are some alternative names and related terms associated with H11.823.

Alternative Names

1. Bilateral Conjunctivochalasis: This term emphasizes that the condition affects both eyes.
2. Conjunctival Ectropion: While not identical, this term can sometimes be used interchangeably, as both conditions involve issues with the conjunctiva, although ectropion specifically refers to the outward turning of the eyelid margin.
3. Conjunctival Pseudoptosis: This term may be used in some contexts to describe the appearance of drooping eyelids due to excess conjunctival tissue.

Related Terms

1. Conjunctivochalasis: The general term for the condition, which can be unilateral (affecting one eye) or bilateral (affecting both eyes).
2. Dry Eye Syndrome: Often associated with conjunctivochalasis, as the redundant conjunctival tissue can contribute to dryness and irritation.
3. Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelid margins that can coexist with conjunctivochalasis and exacerbate symptoms.
4. Eyelid Malposition: A broader category that includes conditions like ectropion and entropion, which can affect the conjunctiva's position and function.

Clinical Context

In clinical practice, understanding these terms is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Conjunctivochalasis can lead to symptoms such as irritation, redness, and discomfort, often requiring interventions ranging from lubricating eye drops to surgical correction in more severe cases.

By familiarizing oneself with these alternative names and related terms, healthcare providers can ensure clearer communication and better patient outcomes when addressing conjunctivochalasis and its implications.

Conjunctivochalasis, characterized by the redundancy of conjunctival tissue, can lead to various ocular symptoms and is classified under the ICD-10 code H11.823 for bilateral cases. The diagnosis of conjunctivochalasis involves several criteria, which are typically assessed through clinical examination and patient history. Here’s a detailed overview of the diagnostic criteria:

Clinical Presentation

1. Symptoms: Patients may report symptoms such as:
   - Eye irritation or discomfort
   - Foreign body sensation
   - Excessive tearing (epiphora)
   - Visual disturbances, particularly if the conjunctivochalasis interferes with the tear film or corneal surface

2. Physical Examination: An ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough eye examination, which may include:
   - Slit-lamp examination: This is crucial for visualizing the conjunctiva and assessing the extent of conjunctivochalasis. The presence of redundant conjunctival folds is a key indicator.
   - Assessment of tear film stability: Tests such as the tear break-up time (TBUT) may be performed to evaluate the quality of the tear film, as conjunctivochalasis can affect tear distribution.

Diagnostic Criteria

1. Identification of Conjunctival Folds: The presence of excess conjunctival tissue that forms folds, particularly in the lower fornix, is a primary diagnostic criterion. These folds can be observed during a slit-lamp examination.

2. Bilateral Involvement: For the diagnosis of H11.823, it is essential that the condition is bilateral, meaning both eyes exhibit signs of conjunctivochalasis.

3. Exclusion of Other Conditions: The diagnosis should also involve ruling out other potential causes of similar symptoms, such as:
   - Pterygium
   - Pinguecula
   - Other forms of conjunctival or corneal pathology

4. Impact on Quality of Life: The symptoms should significantly affect the patient's quality of life, warranting intervention. This may include discussions about the severity of symptoms and their impact on daily activities.

Additional Considerations

• Patient History: A comprehensive history is important, including any previous ocular surgeries, chronic dry eye conditions, or systemic diseases that may contribute to conjunctival changes.
• Management Options: If diagnosed, treatment options may include lubricating eye drops, punctal plugs, or surgical intervention in more severe cases.

In summary, the diagnosis of bilateral conjunctivochalasis (ICD-10 code H11.823) relies on a combination of clinical symptoms, physical examination findings, and the exclusion of other ocular conditions. Proper diagnosis is essential for determining the appropriate management strategy to alleviate symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life.

Conjunctivochalasis, particularly when bilateral, is a condition characterized by the redundancy of the conjunctiva, which can lead to discomfort, irritation, and visual disturbances. The ICD-10 code H11.823 specifically refers to this condition affecting both eyes. Here, we will explore standard treatment approaches for managing bilateral conjunctivochalasis.

Understanding Conjunctivochalasis

Conjunctivochalasis occurs when the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the white part of the eye, becomes lax and redundant. This condition can result from aging, chronic inflammation, or previous ocular surgeries. Symptoms often include:

• Eye irritation or discomfort
• Foreign body sensation
• Excessive tearing or dryness
• Visual disturbances due to corneal exposure

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Conservative Management

For mild cases of conjunctivochalasis, conservative treatment options are often effective:

• Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help alleviate dryness and irritation by providing moisture to the ocular surface[1].
• Cold Compresses: Applying cold compresses can reduce inflammation and provide symptomatic relief[1].
• Avoiding Irritants: Patients are advised to avoid environmental irritants such as smoke, dust, and allergens that may exacerbate symptoms[1].

2. Medical Treatment

If conservative measures are insufficient, medical treatments may be considered:

• Topical Anti-inflammatory Medications: Corticosteroid eye drops may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with conjunctivochalasis[1].
• Antihistamines: For patients with allergic conjunctivitis contributing to symptoms, antihistamine eye drops can be beneficial[1].

3. Surgical Intervention

In cases where conservative and medical treatments fail to provide relief, surgical options may be necessary:

• Conjunctival Resection: This procedure involves the surgical removal of the redundant conjunctival tissue. It is typically performed under local anesthesia and can significantly improve symptoms and ocular surface health[2].
• Punctal Plugs: In some cases, punctal occlusion may be performed to reduce tear drainage and increase tear film stability, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with conjunctivochalasis[2].

4. Postoperative Care

After surgical intervention, proper postoperative care is crucial for recovery:

• Follow-up Appointments: Regular follow-ups with an ophthalmologist are essential to monitor healing and address any complications[2].
• Use of Lubricants: Patients may be advised to continue using artificial tears post-surgery to maintain ocular surface hydration[2].

Conclusion

Bilateral conjunctivochalasis can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, but various treatment options are available. Initial management typically involves conservative measures, progressing to medical treatments and potentially surgical options if symptoms persist. Patients experiencing discomfort or visual disturbances should consult an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan. Regular follow-up is essential to ensure optimal outcomes and address any ongoing issues related to the condition.