Serous detachment of retinal pigment epithelium, bilateral

This code signifies a condition where the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) separates from the underlying Bruch's membrane due to an accumulation of serous fluid, affecting both eyes. This detachment can lead to visual disturbances and is often associated with age-related macular degeneration or central serous chorioretinopathy.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a serous detachment of the retinal pigment epithelium is present in both the right and left eyes. This diagnosis is typically made following ophthalmoscopic examination, optical coherence tomography (OCT), or fluorescein angiography findings.

• Ensure the medical record clearly specifies "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, use the appropriate unilateral code.
• Differentiate from drusenoid pigment epithelial detachment (PED), which has a different underlying pathology and corresponding ICD-10-CM code.
• Always code any underlying or associated conditions, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), in addition to this code.