Benign neoplasm of left retina

This code signifies a non-cancerous growth originating in the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the left eye. These benign tumors, such as retinal astrocytic hamartomas or capillary hemangiomas, do not spread to other parts of the body but can affect vision depending on their size and location.

Assign this code when documentation clearly states a benign neoplasm is present in the left retina. This is typically supported by ophthalmological examination findings, imaging (e.g., OCT, fluorescein angiography), and sometimes biopsy results confirming the non-malignant nature and specific location.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "benign" and "left retina" to avoid miscoding.
• Do not use this code for malignant or uncertain neoplasms; refer to the C and D48 categories, respectively.
• If the laterality is unspecified, use the unspecified eye code (D31.20).