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ICD-10 Coding for Photophobia(H53.19)

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

Also known as:

Light SensitivityVisual Discomfort

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Photophobia

H53.1-H53.19Primary Range

Subjective visual disturbances

This range includes codes for various subjective visual disturbances, with H53.19 specifically for photophobia.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for photophobia

Essential facts and insights about Photophobia

The ICD-10 code for photophobia is H53.19, categorized under 'Other subjective visual disturbances.'

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for photophobia

Other subjective visual disturbances
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Photophobia without structural ocular pathology

coding Criteria

  • Primary symptom of light sensitivity

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of 'photophobia' in clinical notes

Applicable To

  • Photophobia

Excludes

  • H53.149 (Visual discomfort)
  • R44.1 (Visual hallucinations)
  • E50.5 (Vitamin A deficiency-related visual disturbances)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Explicit documentation of 'photophobia' or 'light-induced pain'
  • Absence of structural ocular pathology explaining symptoms
  • Association with neurological conditions (e.g., migraine, TBI)

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with H53.149 for visual discomfort
  • Incorrect sequencing with related conditions

Coding Notes

  • Ensure precise documentation of photophobia and its impact on daily activities.

Ancillary Codes

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

Migraine

G43.-
Use when photophobia is associated with migraines.

Traumatic brain injury

S06.-
Use when photophobia is a symptom following a TBI.

Differential Codes

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

Visual discomfort

H53.149
Use H53.149 for general visual discomfort not specifically described as photophobia.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Photophobia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code H53.19.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate providers on correct terminology., Use templates that prompt for specific terms.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Data Quality: Inaccurate data on patient conditions.

Mitigation Strategy

Use H53.19 specifically for photophobia, not H53.149.

Impact

Using H53.149 instead of H53.19 for photophobia.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular training on ICD-10 updates and coding guidelines.

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 Photophobia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Photophobia

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

Photophobia in a migraine patient

Specialty: Neurology

Required Elements

  • Patient description of photophobia
  • Associated conditions
  • Impact on daily activities

Example Documentation

Patient reports severe photophobia during migraine attacks, limiting screen use to 15 minutes per day.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Light sensitivity noted.
Good Documentation Example
Photophobia (H53.19) severe enough to limit computer use to 15min/day.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details on the severity and impact of photophobia.

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

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