Chronic dacryocystitis of unspecified lacrimal passage

This code describes a persistent inflammation of the lacrimal sac, the small reservoir for tears located in the inner corner of the eye, where the specific tear drainage pathway affected is not documented. This chronic condition often leads to epiphora (excessive tearing), discharge, and recurrent infections due to obstruction of tear flow.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates chronic dacryocystitis without specifying laterality (e.g., right, left, or bilateral) or the specific lacrimal passage involved. This diagnosis is typically supported by clinical findings such as persistent tearing, mucopurulent discharge, and tenderness over the lacrimal sac.

• Do not use this code if laterality (right, left, or bilateral) is documented; instead, select the more specific code.
• Distinguish from acute dacryocystitis, which has a separate code series.
• Consider codes for underlying causes of obstruction if documented, such as lacrimal duct stenosis.