ICD-10: H11.829

Conjunctivochalasis is a condition characterized by the redundancy or excess of conjunctival tissue, which can lead to discomfort and visual disturbances. The ICD-10-CM code H11.829 specifically refers to "Conjunctivochalasis, unspecified eye." To diagnose this condition, healthcare providers typically follow a set of criteria that includes clinical evaluation and specific findings.

Diagnostic Criteria for Conjunctivochalasis

1. Clinical Symptoms

• Discomfort or Irritation: Patients often report symptoms such as a sensation of dryness, foreign body sensation, or irritation in the eye.
• Visual Disturbances: Some individuals may experience blurred vision, particularly if the conjunctival tissue interferes with the tear film or eyelid function.

2. Ocular Examination

• Slit-Lamp Examination: This is a critical component of the diagnosis. During this examination, the ophthalmologist looks for:
  • Excess Conjunctival Tissue: The presence of redundant conjunctival folds, particularly in the lower fornix.
  • Tear Film Stability: Assessment of the tear film may reveal instability, which can be exacerbated by conjunctivochalasis.
• Assessment of Tear Production: Tests such as the Schirmer test may be performed to evaluate tear production and determine if dry eye syndrome is contributing to the symptoms.

3. Differential Diagnosis

• It is essential to rule out other conditions that may present similarly, such as:
  • Pterygium: A growth of tissue on the conjunctiva that can also cause irritation.
  • Pinguecula: A yellowish, raised growth on the conjunctiva that may cause discomfort.
  • Other Conjunctival Disorders: Conditions like conjunctivitis or other forms of conjunctival inflammation should be considered.

4. Patient History

• A thorough patient history is crucial, including:
  • Duration of Symptoms: Understanding how long the symptoms have been present can help in assessing the severity and potential underlying causes.
  • Previous Eye Conditions: Any history of eye surgeries, trauma, or chronic conditions affecting the eyes should be noted.

5. Response to Treatment

• Observing how the condition responds to conservative treatments, such as artificial tears or lubricating ointments, can also provide insight into the diagnosis.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of conjunctivochalasis (ICD-10 code H11.829) involves a comprehensive evaluation that includes clinical symptoms, detailed ocular examination, and consideration of differential diagnoses. Proper identification of this condition is essential for effective management and treatment, which may include lubricating eye drops, surgical intervention, or other therapeutic measures depending on the severity of the symptoms and the impact on the patient's quality of life.

Conjunctivochalasis, classified under ICD-10 code H11.829, refers to a condition characterized by the presence of excess conjunctival tissue that can lead to various ocular symptoms. This condition is often seen in older adults and can be associated with dry eye syndrome, inflammation, or other ocular surface disorders.

Clinical Description

Definition

Conjunctivochalasis is defined as a redundant fold of conjunctiva that is not attached to the underlying sclera. This excess tissue can cause discomfort, irritation, and may interfere with the normal function of the tear film, leading to symptoms similar to those of dry eye disease[1][2].

Symptoms

Patients with conjunctivochalasis may experience:
- Eye irritation: A sensation of grittiness or foreign body sensation.
- Redness: Due to inflammation or irritation of the conjunctiva.
- Tearing: Paradoxically, patients may experience excessive tearing as a response to irritation.
- Visual disturbances: In some cases, the redundant tissue may obstruct vision, particularly in extreme gaze positions[3].

Etiology

The condition is often associated with:
- Aging: As individuals age, the conjunctiva may lose elasticity, leading to the development of conjunctivochalasis.
- Dry eye syndrome: Chronic dryness can exacerbate the condition, as the lack of adequate lubrication may lead to inflammation and tissue changes.
- Previous ocular surgeries: Procedures such as cataract surgery can alter the conjunctival anatomy, contributing to the development of conjunctivochalasis[4].

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of conjunctivochalasis typically involves:
- Clinical examination: An ophthalmologist will perform a thorough eye examination, often using a slit lamp to assess the conjunctiva and tear film.
- Symptom assessment: Evaluating the patient's symptoms and their impact on daily activities is crucial for diagnosis[5].

Treatment

Management of conjunctivochalasis may include:
- Lubricating eye drops: Artificial tears can help alleviate symptoms by providing moisture to the ocular surface.
- Surgical intervention: In cases where symptoms are severe or persistent, surgical options such as conjunctival resection or plication may be considered to remove the excess tissue and restore normal conjunctival anatomy[6][7].

Conclusion

ICD-10 code H11.829 is used to classify conjunctivochalasis of the unspecified eye, highlighting the need for careful assessment and management of this condition. Understanding the clinical implications and treatment options is essential for healthcare providers to effectively address the symptoms and improve the quality of life for affected patients. If symptoms persist or worsen, referral to an ophthalmologist for further evaluation and potential surgical intervention may be warranted.

References

1. ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H11.829 - Conjunctivochalasis, unspecified eye.
2. ICD-10-CM Code for Conjunctivochalasis, unspecified eye H11.829 - AAPC.
3. Other disorders of conjunctiva (H11) - ICD List.
4. Corneal Graft and Amniotic Membrane Transplantation.
5. Dry Eye Billing & Coding.
6. 2025 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H11.829 - The Web's Free 2023 ICD-10-CM.
7. 2025 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H11.82.

Conjunctivochalasis, classified under ICD-10 code H11.829, refers to a condition characterized by the redundancy or excess of conjunctival tissue, which can lead to various ocular symptoms. This condition is often seen in older adults but can occur in individuals of any age. Below is a detailed overview of the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with conjunctivochalasis.

Clinical Presentation

Definition and Pathophysiology

Conjunctivochalasis involves the presence of excess conjunctival tissue that can fold over itself, potentially causing discomfort and visual disturbances. This condition is often associated with aging, chronic inflammation, or previous ocular surgeries, which may alter the normal anatomy of the conjunctiva and eyelids.

Common Patient Characteristics

• Age: Most commonly observed in older adults, particularly those over 50 years of age, 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 eye surgeries (like cataract surgery), or chronic inflammatory conditions affecting the eyes[1][2].

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms

Patients with conjunctivochalasis may report a variety of symptoms, including:
- Ocular Discomfort: Patients often describe a sensation of irritation or a foreign body feeling in the eye, which can be exacerbated by blinking or prolonged visual tasks[2].
- Redness: The affected eye may appear red due to irritation or inflammation of the conjunctiva[1].
- Tearing: Some patients experience excessive tearing, which can be paradoxical, as the condition may be associated with dry eye symptoms[2].
- Visual Disturbances: In some cases, the redundant conjunctival tissue can obstruct vision, particularly if it interferes with the tear film or corneal surface[1].

Signs

During a clinical examination, healthcare providers may observe:
- Excess Conjunctival Tissue: The presence of redundant conjunctival folds, particularly in the lower fornix, which may be more pronounced when the patient looks up or down[2].
- Inflammation: Signs of conjunctival inflammation, such as hyperemia or edema, may be present[1].
- Tear Film Instability: Assessment of the tear film may reveal instability, contributing to the symptoms of dryness and discomfort[2].

Conclusion

Conjunctivochalasis (ICD-10 code H11.829) is a condition primarily affecting older adults, characterized by excess conjunctival tissue leading to discomfort, tearing, and potential visual disturbances. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, and symptoms is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management. Treatment options may include lubricating eye drops, surgical intervention to remove excess tissue, or addressing underlying conditions such as dry eye syndrome. If you suspect conjunctivochalasis, a thorough examination by an eye care professional is recommended to determine the appropriate course of action.

Conjunctivochalasis, classified under ICD-10 code H11.829, refers to a condition characterized by the redundancy of conjunctival tissue, which can lead to discomfort and visual disturbances. While the specific term "conjunctivochalasis" is widely used, there are several alternative names and related terms that may be encountered in medical literature and practice.

Alternative Names for Conjunctivochalasis

1. Conjunctival Overhang: This term describes the excess conjunctival tissue that hangs over the eyelid margin, which is a hallmark of conjunctivochalasis.

2. Conjunctival Fold: This term may be used to refer to the folds of conjunctival tissue that can develop in this condition.

3. Conjunctival Pseudoptosis: This term is sometimes used when the excess conjunctival tissue mimics the appearance of eyelid drooping (ptosis).

4. Conjunctival Hypertrophy: Although not identical, this term can refer to an increase in the size of conjunctival tissue, which may overlap with conjunctivochalasis in some cases.

Related Terms

1. Dry Eye Syndrome: Conjunctivochalasis is often associated with dry eye conditions, as the redundant conjunctival tissue can disrupt the normal tear film.

2. Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelid margins can coexist with conjunctivochalasis, leading to similar symptoms.

3. Eyelid Malposition: Conditions such as ectropion or entropion may be related, as they can contribute to or exacerbate conjunctivochalasis.

4. Pterygium: This growth of conjunctival tissue onto the cornea can sometimes be confused with conjunctivochalasis, although they are distinct conditions.

5. Conjunctivitis: While primarily an inflammation of the conjunctiva, conjunctivitis can occur alongside conjunctivochalasis, particularly in cases of chronic irritation.

Conclusion

Understanding the alternative names and related terms for conjunctivochalasis can enhance communication among healthcare providers and improve patient education. Recognizing these terms is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning, especially in cases where conjunctivochalasis may be associated with other ocular conditions. If you have further questions or need more specific information, feel free to ask!

Conjunctivochalasis, classified under ICD-10 code H11.829, refers to a condition characterized by the redundancy of the conjunctiva, which can lead to discomfort and visual disturbances. This condition is often seen in older adults and can be associated with dry eye syndrome or other ocular surface disorders. Here, we will explore the standard treatment approaches for conjunctivochalasis.

Understanding Conjunctivochalasis

Conjunctivochalasis occurs when the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner eyelids, becomes lax and redundant. This can result in symptoms such as irritation, redness, and a sensation of a foreign body in the eye. The condition can also interfere with tear film stability, exacerbating dry eye symptoms[1].

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Conservative Management

For mild cases of conjunctivochalasis, conservative management is often the first line of treatment. This may include:

• Artificial Tears: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help alleviate dryness and discomfort associated with conjunctivochalasis. These drops help maintain moisture on the ocular surface and can reduce symptoms of irritation[1].

• Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses to the eyes can help improve circulation and promote the natural flow of tears, providing symptomatic relief[1].

• Environmental Modifications: Patients are advised to avoid irritants such as smoke, wind, and dry air, which can exacerbate symptoms. Using humidifiers in dry environments can also be beneficial[1].

2. Medical Treatments

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. However, these should be used cautiously and under the supervision of an eye care professional due to potential side effects with long-term use[1].

• Punctal Plugs: In cases where dry eye is a significant component, punctal plugs can be inserted into the tear ducts to reduce tear drainage, thereby increasing tear film stability and moisture on the ocular surface[1].

3. Surgical Interventions

For more severe cases or when 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 provide significant relief from symptoms by restoring the normal anatomy of the conjunctiva[1].

• Blepharoplasty: In some cases, if there is associated eyelid laxity, a blepharoplasty may be performed to tighten the eyelids and improve the overall function of the eyelid in protecting the eye and maintaining tear film stability[1].

Conclusion

Conjunctivochalasis, while often a benign condition, can lead to significant discomfort and visual disturbances if left untreated. The management of this condition typically begins with conservative measures, progressing to medical treatments and potentially surgical interventions as needed. Patients experiencing symptoms should consult with an eye care professional for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan to address their specific needs. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as necessary.