Toxic maculopathy, bilateral

This code describes damage to the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision, caused by exposure to toxic substances. This condition affects both eyes, leading to impaired central vision due to the toxic effects on macular cells.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates bilateral macular damage resulting from a toxic agent, such as certain medications (e.g., chloroquine, phenothiazines) or environmental toxins. Supporting documentation should specify the toxic etiology and confirm bilateral involvement of the macula.

• Always code the specific toxic agent responsible for the maculopathy using an additional code from T36-T65, if known and documented.
• Distinguish from other forms of maculopathy (e.g., age-related, degenerative) by ensuring the documentation explicitly states a toxic cause.
• Verify bilateral involvement; if only one eye is affected, use the appropriate unilateral code (H35.381 or H35.382).