Type 2 diabetes mellitus with diabetic cataract

This code signifies type 2 diabetes mellitus complicated by the presence of a diabetic cataract. A diabetic cataract is a specific type of lens opacity that develops as a direct consequence of chronic hyperglycemia in individuals with diabetes.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and identifies a cataract as being diabetic in nature. This is typically supported by an ophthalmologist's or endocrinologist's assessment linking the cataract directly to the patient's diabetes.

• Always confirm the type of diabetes (Type 1 vs. Type 2) and the causal link between diabetes and the cataract.
• Do not use this code for cataracts that are not explicitly documented as diabetic, even in a diabetic patient.
• Sequence this code as a primary diagnosis if the cataract is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if managing the diabetes or other complications.