Overview
ICD-10 code H21262 refers to acute and subacute iridocyclitis, bilateral, with intermediate uveitis. It falls under the category of diseases of the eye and adnexa. This code is used by healthcare professionals to classify and code diagnoses in medical records for billing and statistical purposes.
Signs and Symptoms
Patients with H21262 may experience symptoms such as eye pain, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and floaters in their field of vision. In some cases, there may be associated systemic symptoms such as headache, fatigue, and joint pain.
Causes
The exact cause of acute and subacute iridocyclitis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune response where the body’s immune system mistakenly targets the eye tissues. Other possible causes include infections, trauma, or underlying systemic conditions such as inflammatory disorders.
Prevalence and Risk
Acute and subacute iridocyclitis is a relatively rare condition, with a prevalence of about 5-10 cases per 100,000 population. It can affect individuals of any age, but it is more commonly seen in adults between the ages of 20-50. Certain risk factors such as a history of autoimmune diseases or infections may increase the likelihood of developing this condition.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing H21262 involves a thorough eye examination by an ophthalmologist, including visual acuity testing, slit-lamp examination, and measuring intraocular pressure. Additional tests such as blood work, imaging studies, or a biopsy of eye tissue may be necessary to determine the underlying cause of the inflammation.
Treatment and Recovery
Treatment for acute and subacute iridocyclitis typically involves topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and pain. In more severe cases, immunosuppressive medications or biologic agents may be prescribed to control the autoimmune response. With prompt and appropriate treatment, most patients can experience improvement in their symptoms and achieve remission.
Prevention
There is no specific way to prevent the development of acute and subacute iridocyclitis. However, individuals with a history of autoimmune diseases or eye infections should be vigilant about monitoring their eye health and seeking prompt medical attention if they experience any symptoms suggestive of uveitis.
Related Diseases
Acute and subacute iridocyclitis is closely related to other forms of uveitis, such as anterior uveitis and posterior uveitis. It may also be associated with systemic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, sarcoidosis, or Behçet’s disease, which can increase the risk of developing uveitis.
Coding Guidance
When assigning the ICD-10 code H21262, it is important to specify whether the condition is acute or subacute, as well as the laterality (bilateral) and the specific type of uveitis (intermediate). Proper documentation and coding are essential for accurate billing and insurance reimbursement.
Common Denial Reasons
Insurance claims for H21262 may be denied due to lack of specificity in the diagnosis, inadequate documentation of the treatment provided, or failure to meet the criteria for medical necessity. It is crucial for healthcare providers to provide detailed and accurate information to support the diagnosis and treatment of uveitis.