Etta has been using corticosteroids for severe hay fever asthma for the last few years, and is now experiencing some eye problems. Her physician told her that she was only in the early stages of glaucoma, which could be treated to ensure her vision for the rest of her life. What is the correct code for the ICD-9 codes for Etta’s condition?
Explanation
Answer: A - The correct code for the ICD-9 codes for Etta’s condition are: 365.31 and 365.71. ICD-9 coding guidelines state that for types of glaucoma, categorized to subcategories 365.1 to 365.6, an additional code from category 365.7 should be assigned to indicate the stage of glaucoma. In Etta’s case, her primary glaucoma diagnosis is 365.31 (Corticosteroid-Induced Glaucoma, Glaucomatous Stage), and her physician has indicated that it is in the early stage, so the correct secondary diagnosis is 365.71.
