Age-related choroidal atrophy, unspecified eye

This code describes the deterioration of the choroid, a vascular layer of the eye, specifically due to aging processes, without specifying which eye is affected. This atrophy can lead to thinning and degeneration of the choroidal tissue, potentially impacting retinal function. It represents a form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) that primarily affects the choroid.

Use this code when documentation indicates age-related choroidal atrophy but does not specify laterality (right or left eye). This is appropriate when the physician's assessment confirms the condition is age-related and choroidal, but the specific eye affected is either not documented or is bilateral and the documentation does not differentiate.

• Only use this code when laterality is truly unspecified; otherwise, use the more specific codes for right (H31.111) or left (H31.112) eye.
• Distinguish from other forms of choroidal degeneration not explicitly linked to aging or those with a specified etiology.
• Ensure documentation clearly states "age-related" and "choroidal atrophy" to support this diagnosis.