Keratomalacia, left eye

This code describes keratomalacia affecting the left eye, a severe eye disorder characterized by drying and ulceration of the cornea due to vitamin A deficiency. It leads to corneal softening, opacification, and can result in blindness if untreated.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states keratomalacia is present in the left eye, typically in patients with nutritional deficiencies or systemic conditions impacting vitamin A absorption. Supporting documentation should include ophthalmological exam findings detailing corneal changes consistent with softening and ulceration.

• Ensure laterality is clearly documented as "left eye" to avoid unspecified coding.
• Always code the underlying cause of the vitamin A deficiency, if known, as a secondary diagnosis.
• Differentiate from other corneal disorders like keratitis or corneal ulcers not specifically due to vitamin A deficiency.