Proliferative sickle-cell retinopathy, right eye

This code signifies a specific retinal complication of sickle cell disease, characterized by the growth of new, abnormal blood vessels in the retina of the right eye. These fragile vessels can lead to vitreous hemorrhage, retinal detachment, and vision loss if left untreated. It represents an advanced stage of sickle cell retinopathy.

Use this code when documentation confirms the presence of proliferative sickle cell retinopathy affecting the right eye. This diagnosis is typically made by an ophthalmologist through dilated fundus examination, often supported by fluorescein angiography. It applies to patients with a confirmed diagnosis of sickle cell disease exhibiting these specific ocular manifestations.

• Always specify laterality (right, left, or bilateral) for retinal conditions when documented.
• Ensure the medical record clearly distinguishes between non-proliferative and proliferative stages of retinopathy.
• Code the underlying sickle cell disease (e.g., D57.0x, D57.1, D57.21x) as the primary diagnosis, followed by this code as a secondary diagnosis.