Vitamin A deficiency with xerophthalmic scars of cornea

This code signifies a severe form of vitamin A deficiency characterized by permanent scarring of the cornea due to xerophthalmia. This scarring can lead to significant and irreversible vision impairment or blindness. It represents a chronic and advanced stage of ocular damage resulting from prolonged vitamin A deprivation.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states vitamin A deficiency with corneal scarring attributed to xerophthalmia. This typically follows earlier stages of xerophthalmia, such as night blindness or conjunctival xerosis. Supporting documentation should include ophthalmological findings confirming corneal scarring and a clear link to vitamin A deficiency.

• Ensure documentation specifically mentions "scars of cornea" and not just other xerophthalmic manifestations like conjunctival xerosis or Bitot's spots.
• Do not use this code for acute or reversible forms of xerophthalmia without corneal scarring.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis if it is the main reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if the patient is being treated for a related complication.