Type 1 diab with severe nonp rtnop with macular edema, l eye

This code identifies a patient diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes mellitus who has developed severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy affecting the left eye, specifically complicated by macular edema. This indicates significant microvascular damage in the retina without new vessel formation, with fluid leakage causing swelling in the macula.

Use this code when documentation clearly states Type 1 diabetes and severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy with macular edema in the left eye. This typically occurs during ophthalmologic examinations or diabetes management appointments where retinal complications are assessed. Supporting documentation includes ophthalmologist notes, retinal imaging reports (e.g., OCT, fluorescein angiography), and physician's assessment.

• Always confirm the type of diabetes (Type 1 vs. Type 2) and the specific eye affected (left, right, or bilateral).
• Distinguish between nonproliferative and proliferative retinopathy, and ensure the severity (mild, moderate, severe) is documented.
• Verify the presence or absence of macular edema, as this significantly impacts code selection.