Drusen (degenerative) of macula, unspecified eye

This code signifies the presence of drusen, which are yellowish deposits of extracellular material that accumulate beneath the retina, specifically in the macula. These degenerative changes are a hallmark of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and can precede vision loss. This particular code is used when the affected eye is not specified.

Use this code when documentation indicates the presence of macular drusen of a degenerative nature, but the medical record does not specify whether it affects the right, left, or both eyes. This is often seen in initial diagnostic reports or when laterality is not explicitly documented.

• Avoid using this code if laterality (right, left, or bilateral) is clearly documented; instead, choose the more specific H35.361, H35.362, or H35.363.
• This code describes the presence of drusen, not the severity or stage of AMD. Additional codes for nonexudative or exudative AMD may be necessary.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "degenerative" drusen to differentiate from other types of macular deposits.