Hypopyon, bilateral

This code signifies the presence of hypopyon, which is an accumulation of white blood cells and inflammatory exudate in the anterior chamber of both eyes. This condition typically presents as a visible fluid level, often white or yellowish, at the bottom of the iris. It is a sign of severe intraocular inflammation, such as endophthalmitis or severe uveitis.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates hypopyon affecting both the right and left eyes. This code is appropriate for inflammatory conditions where pus or cellular debris is observed bilaterally in the anterior chamber. Supporting documentation should include ophthalmological examination findings detailing the presence and laterality of the hypopyon.

• Ensure documentation specifies "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, use the appropriate unilateral code (H20.051 or H20.052) or unspecified (H20.059).
• Always code the underlying cause of the hypopyon (e.g., uveitis, endophthalmitis) first, as hypopyon is a manifestation of another condition.
• Distinguish from hyphema (blood in the anterior chamber), which has different ICD-10-CM codes.