2025 ICD-10-CM code H25.0
(Valid) Effective Date: N/A Diseases of the eye and adnexa - Disorders of lens 7 Feed
Age-related incipient cataract. This refers to the early stages of cataract formation due to aging, where the lens of the eye begins to cloud, causing slight vision impairment.
Medical necessity for treatment of age-related incipient cataracts is determined by the degree to which the cataracts impair the patient's ability to perform daily activities and their overall quality of life. The decision to proceed with cataract surgery depends on the severity of visual impairment and the patient's individual needs and preferences.
Diagnosis and management of age-related incipient cataracts falls under the purview of ophthalmologists. They perform eye exams to assess the extent of the cataract and determine the best course of treatment. This may include prescribing eyeglasses or contact lenses in the early stages, and eventually surgical removal of the cataract when vision significantly deteriorates.
In simple words: An age-related incipient cataract is the beginning stage of a cataract in older adults. The eye's lens, which helps you focus, starts to get cloudy. It's like a fog forming inside the eye that makes things look a bit blurry. This cloudiness happens as you get older.
Age-related incipient cataract is the initial stage of a cataract that develops due to the natural aging process.The lens, situated behind the pupil, starts to become cloudy or opaque. This cloudiness interferes with the passage of light to the retina, potentially leading to blurred vision or other visual disturbances. Incipient cataracts represent the beginning phase of this condition, and the level of visual impairment is usually mild.
Example 1: A 60-year-old patient presents with slightly blurred vision, especially during night driving. Upon examination, an ophthalmologist diagnoses age-related incipient cataracts in both eyes. As the cataracts are in the early stages, the patient is prescribed new eyeglasses and advised to return for follow-up appointments to monitor progression., A 70-year-old patient experiences increased glare and difficulty reading small print.The ophthalmologist's examination reveals age-related incipient cataracts. The patient is informed about cataract surgery as a future treatment option once the cataracts advance and vision worsens., During a routine eye exam, an ophthalmologist identifies age-related incipient cataracts in a 65-year-old patient who has no visual complaints. The patient is educated about the natural progression of cataracts and scheduled for regular monitoring to assess changes in visual acuity.
Documentation should include visual acuity measurements, slit-lamp examination findings describing the location and extent of lens opacification, and the impact on the patient's visual function.Any associated symptoms like glare, halos, or difficulty with night vision should also be noted.
** It's important to note that the term "senile" is no longer used in current clinical practice, being replaced with "age-related." As of November 30, 2024, the provided information is current. However, medical coding and guidelines can be subject to change. Always refer to the latest coding manuals and regulations for the most accurate and updated information.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Ophthalmology
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital