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ICD-10 Coding for Iritis(H20.011, H44.121)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Iritis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Anterior UveitisInflammation of the Iris

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Iritis

H20.0-H20.9Primary Range

Iritis and other forms of anterior uveitis

This range includes codes for various forms of iritis, including acute, recurrent, and chronic types.

Traumatic iritis

This range is used for coding iritis resulting from trauma.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
H20.011Acute iritis, right eyeUse for acute iritis affecting the right eye with no underlying systemic condition.
  • Presence of cells and flare in the anterior chamber
  • Acute onset of symptoms
H44.121Traumatic iridocyclitis, right eyeUse for iritis resulting from trauma to the right eye.
  • History of ocular trauma
  • Clinical findings consistent with iritis

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for acute iritis

Essential facts and insights about Iritis

The ICD-10 code for acute iritis affecting the right eye is H20.011. Ensure documentation specifies laterality and the acute nature of the condition.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for iritis

Acute iritis, right eye
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Acute onset with anterior chamber inflammation

Applicable To

  • Acute inflammation of the iris

Excludes

  • Chronic iritis
  • Recurrent iritis

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Presence of cells and flare in the anterior chamber
  • Acute onset of symptoms

Code-Specific Risks

  • Ensure laterality is documented correctly to avoid errors.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies laterality and acute nature.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Herpesviral iridocyclitis

B00.5
Use when iritis is due to herpes simplex infection.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Recurrent iritis, left eye

H20.022
Use when the condition is recurrent rather than acute.

Acute iritis, right eye

H20.011
Use H44.121 when trauma is the cause.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Iritis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code H20.011.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the etiology if known., Use templates to ensure completeness.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Reduces the accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document and code the specific type and laterality of iritis.

Impact

High risk of audit when using unspecified codes without proper documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all documentation is specific and complete.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Iritis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Iritis

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Iritis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Acute Iritis Documentation

Specialty: Ophthalmology

Required Elements

  • Laterality
  • Temporal pattern
  • Etiology
  • Clinical findings

Example Documentation

Patient presents with acute onset of right eye redness and pain. Slit-lamp exam reveals 3+ cells and 2+ flare in the anterior chamber.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has iritis.
Good Documentation Example
Acute iritis, right eye, with 3+ cells and 2+ flare. No systemic symptoms.
Explanation
The good example provides specific clinical findings and laterality.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Iritis? Ask your questions below.

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