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ICD-10 Coding for Red Eye(H10.1-, H10.011, H57.1)

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

Also known as:

ConjunctivitisPink EyeOcular Hyperemia

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Red Eye

H10-H11Primary Range

Disorders of conjunctiva

This range includes all types of conjunctivitis, which are the primary conditions associated with red eye.

Other disorders of eye and adnexa

Includes codes for symptoms like eye pain, which can be associated with red eye.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
H10.1-Acute atopic conjunctivitisUse when the patient presents with symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis.
  • Presence of itching and watery discharge
  • History of allergies
H10.011Acute follicular conjunctivitis, right eyeUse when follicular conjunctivitis is confirmed in the right eye.
  • Follicles on conjunctival surface
  • Unilateral presentation
H57.1Eye painUse when eye pain is present without conjunctivitis.
  • Pain without visible conjunctival injection

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 red eye

Essential facts and insights about Red Eye

The ICD-10 code for red eye depends on the specific diagnosis, such as H10.1- for allergic conjunctivitis.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for red eye

Acute atopic conjunctivitis
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of bilateral itching and watery discharge

Applicable To

  • Allergic conjunctivitis

Excludes

  • Chronic conjunctivitis

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Presence of itching and watery discharge
  • History of allergies

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if laterality is not documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified codes.

Ancillary Codes

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

Other long term (current) drug therapy

Z79.899
Use to indicate ongoing use of allergy medications.

Nasal congestion

R09.81
Use if allergy-related symptoms are present.

Differential Codes

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

Other conjunctivitis

H10.89
Use when conjunctivitis is not specified as allergic or bacterial.

Acute follicular conjunctivitis, left eye

H10.021
Use based on the affected eye.

Unspecified conjunctivitis

H10.9
Use when conjunctivitis is present but not specified.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Red Eye to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code H10.1-.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to incorrect diagnosis and treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim rejections due to lack of specificity.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates for documentation., Train staff on importance of detailed clinical notes.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Reduces specificity and accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Document specific type and laterality of conjunctivitis.

Impact

High risk of audit for using codes like H10.9 without specificity.

Mitigation Strategy

Document specific findings and laterality to support code selection.

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

Documentation Templates for Red Eye

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

Acute conjunctivitis presentation

Specialty: Ophthalmology

Required Elements

  • Onset and duration of symptoms
  • Laterality and type of discharge
  • Presence of pain or photophobia
  • Visual acuity and slit lamp findings

Example Documentation

Patient presents with acute onset of redness and itching in both eyes. Examination reveals bilateral conjunctival injection and watery discharge. Visual acuity is 20/20 OU.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Red eye, treat with drops.
Good Documentation Example
Bilateral conjunctival injection with watery discharge, VA 20/20 OU, history of seasonal allergies.
Explanation
The good example provides specific findings and history to support the diagnosis.

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

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