2025 ICD-10-CM code H01.01
Ulcerative blepharitis.
Medical necessity for the treatment of ulcerative blepharitis is established by the presence of signs and symptoms impacting the patient's ocular health and comfort. This includes pain, impaired vision, inflammation, and risk of complications such as corneal involvement.
The diagnosis and treatment of ulcerative blepharitis fall under the responsibility of ophthalmologists and optometrists.They will assess the patient's medical history, perform a thorough eye examination, potentially using a slit lamp to get a closer look at the eyelids and cornea.Treatment decisions will be based on the underlying cause of the blepharitis (bacterial, viral, or other) and may include topical or oral antibiotics, antiviral medications, warm compresses, eyelid scrubs, and in certain cases, steroid eye drops or ointments. Patient education on proper eyelid hygiene is crucial for managing the condition and preventing recurrence.
- Chapter 7: Diseases of the eye and adnexa (H00-H59)
- Disorders of eyelid, lacrimal system and orbit (H00-H05)
In simple words: Ulcerative blepharitis is a type of eyelid inflammation caused by infection. It makes your eyelids red, sore, and crusty, and can sometimes cause your eyelashes to fall out.Your eyes might also feel itchy, burning, watery, or dry.
Ulcerative blepharitis is characterized by the formation of small abscesses in the eyelash follicles that rupture, leading to shallow ulcers along the eyelid margins.These ulcers can cause hard crusts to form around the eyelashes, often sticking the eyelids together, especially after sleep.This condition can result in the loss of eyelashes, redness, itching, burning, and a sticky, swollen feeling in the eyelids.The eyes may also water excessively or feel dry and gritty, and in severe cases, the cornea can become inflamed.
Example 1: A 5-year-old child presents with red, swollen eyelids with matted, hard crusts around the eyelashes. Upon removal of the crusts, small sores that ooze and bleed are revealed.The child's eyes are watery and itchy.Diagnosis: H01.01, Ulcerative blepharitis., A 30-year-old patient with a history of eczema complains of recurrent episodes of red, irritated eyelids with hard crusts and occasional loss of eyelashes. Examination reveals shallow ulcers on the eyelid margins. Diagnosis: H01.01, Ulcerative blepharitis., A 65-year-old patient presents with a painful, swollen right eyelid, crusted eyelashes, and a small ulcer on the eyelid margin. The patient reports experiencing similar symptoms in the past.Diagnosis: H01.01, Ulcerative blepharitis.
Documentation should include the location and laterality of the blepharitis (e.g., upper and lower eyelids, right or left eye), the presence of ulcers and crusting, any associated symptoms such as itching, burning, or tearing, the suspected cause (e.g., bacterial, viral), and response to treatment.
- Specialties:Ophthalmology, Optometry
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Inpatient Hospital