Chronic lacrimal mucocele of unspecified lacrimal passage

This code signifies a persistent, non-infectious obstruction of the tear drainage system, specifically within an unspecified lacrimal passage, leading to the accumulation of mucus. This results in a palpable, often painless, cystic swelling in the medial canthal region. It represents a long-standing condition rather than an acute inflammatory process.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a chronic mucocele of the lacrimal sac or duct, and the specific passage (e.g., nasolacrimal duct, common canaliculus) is not identified. This diagnosis is typically supported by clinical examination findings of a distended, non-tender mass in the lacrimal sac area, often with a history of epiphora.

• Differentiate from acute dacryocystitis (H04.3-) which involves inflammation and often pain.
• Avoid using this code if the specific lacrimal passage involved is documented; instead, use more specific codes like H04.431-H04.436.
• Ensure the "chronic" nature of the mucocele is explicitly stated or clearly implied by the duration of symptoms in the medical record.