Descemetocele, unspecified eye

This code signifies a descemetocele, which is a severe corneal ulceration where the ulcer has eroded through the corneal stroma, leaving only Descemet's membrane and the corneal endothelium intact. This condition represents an imminent risk of corneal perforation and is considered an ophthalmic emergency.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a descemetocele without specifying laterality (right or left eye). This diagnosis is typically made during a slit-lamp examination revealing a deep corneal defect with a bulging Descemet's membrane. It is often associated with severe keratitis, trauma, or autoimmune conditions.

• Always strive for laterality if documented; use H18.731 for right eye or H18.732 for left eye when specified.
• Code any underlying cause of the descemetocele (e.g., infectious keratitis, exposure keratopathy) as an additional diagnosis.
• Ensure the physician's notes explicitly state "descemetocele" or describe the characteristic deep ulceration with intact Descemet's membrane.