2025 ICD-10-CM code A71.0
(Valid) Effective Date: N/A Infectious and parasitic diseases - Other diseases caused by chlamydiae Certain infectious and parasitic diseases Feed
Initial stage of trachoma, also known as trachoma dubium.
Medical necessity is established by the presence of signs and symptoms of the initial stage of trachoma, particularly in individuals who have traveled to or reside in areas where trachoma is prevalent. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent progression to more severe stages and potential blindness.
Diagnosis is based on travel history to endemic areas, symptoms, eye examination, and laboratory tests of ocular discharge (e.g., nucleic acid amplification tests, polymerase chain reaction). Treatment typically involves oral antibiotics and eye ointment.
In simple words: This code is used when someone has the very beginning stage of trachoma, a type of eye infection.It may not have noticeable symptoms, or just some mild itching and redness.
This code represents the initial stage of trachoma, a bacterial eye infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis.In this early phase, the infection is often asymptomatic or presents with mild symptoms like itching, redness, and photophobia (sensitivity to light).It is characterized by the presence of five or more follicles (small bumps containing lymphocytes) on the inner surface of the upper eyelid (conjunctiva), visible with magnification.
Example 1: A child living in a rural area known for trachoma presents with mild itching and redness in both eyes. Upon examination with magnification, five follicles are observed on the upper eyelid conjunctiva.A71.0 is assigned., An adult returning from a trip to a region where trachoma is common reports slight eye irritation. Examination reveals minimal inflammation and a few follicles on the upper eyelid.A71.0 is assigned., A patient presents with early signs of conjunctivitis and reports recent travel to an area with high trachoma prevalence. Lab tests confirm Chlamydia trachomatis infection. A71.0 is used to indicate the initial stage.
Documentation should include symptoms (itching, redness, photophobia), examination findings (follicles on upper eyelid conjunctiva), travel history to trachoma-endemic areas, and laboratory test results confirming Chlamydia trachomatis infection if available.
- Specialties:Ophthalmology, Infectious Disease
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Clinic, Public Health Clinic