ICD-10: H20.042

Clinical Description of ICD-10 Code H20.042

ICD-10 Code: H20.042
Diagnosis: Secondary noninfectious iridocyclitis, left eye

Overview of Iridocyclitis

Iridocyclitis refers to the inflammation of the iris and the ciliary body, which are parts of the eye involved in controlling light entry and focusing. This condition can be classified into two main categories: infectious and noninfectious. The noninfectious type can further be categorized into primary and secondary forms.

Secondary noninfectious iridocyclitis occurs as a result of other underlying conditions rather than as a primary disease. It can be associated with systemic diseases, trauma, or other ocular conditions. The left eye designation in H20.042 specifies that the inflammation is localized to the left eye.

Clinical Features

1. Symptoms:
   - Eye Pain: Patients often report significant discomfort or pain in the affected eye.
   - Photophobia: Increased sensitivity to light is common, leading to discomfort in bright environments.
   - Blurred Vision: Vision may be affected due to the inflammation and associated complications.
   - Redness: The eye may appear red due to the dilation of blood vessels in the conjunctiva and iris.

2. Signs:
   - Intraocular Pressure Changes: There may be fluctuations in intraocular pressure, which can lead to complications if not monitored.
   - Pupil Reaction: The affected pupil may be irregular or nonreactive to light.
   - Keratic Precipitates: These are small deposits on the corneal endothelium that can be observed during an eye examination.

Etiology

Secondary noninfectious iridocyclitis can arise from various causes, including but not limited to:

• Systemic Diseases: Conditions such as sarcoidosis, rheumatoid arthritis, or inflammatory bowel disease can lead to secondary iridocyclitis.
• Trauma: Physical injury to the eye can trigger inflammatory responses.
• Ocular Surgery: Previous surgical interventions may result in inflammation as a complication.
• Toxic Reactions: Certain medications or substances can provoke an inflammatory response in the eye.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of H20.042 involves a comprehensive eye examination, including:

• Slit-Lamp Examination: This allows for detailed visualization of the anterior segment of the eye, helping to identify signs of inflammation.
• History and Symptoms Review: A thorough patient history is essential to identify potential underlying causes.
• Additional Testing: Blood tests or imaging studies may be necessary to evaluate for systemic conditions contributing to the iridocyclitis.

Treatment

Management of secondary noninfectious iridocyclitis typically involves:

• Corticosteroids: These are the mainstay of treatment to reduce inflammation.
• Dilating Drops: These help relieve pain and prevent synechiae (adhesions between the iris and lens).
• Addressing Underlying Conditions: Treatment may also involve managing any systemic diseases contributing to the condition.

Conclusion

ICD-10 code H20.042 identifies secondary noninfectious iridocyclitis in the left eye, a condition characterized by inflammation due to various underlying causes. Proper diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications and preserve vision. Regular follow-up and monitoring are essential for patients diagnosed with this condition to ensure effective treatment and management of any associated systemic issues.