Primary open-angle glaucoma, unspecified eye, severe stage

This code signifies primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) that has progressed to a severe stage, affecting an unspecified eye. POAG is a chronic, progressive optic neuropathy characterized by optic nerve damage and visual field loss, typically associated with elevated intraocular pressure. Severe stage indicates extensive visual field loss, often with central vision involvement.

Utilize this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of primary open-angle glaucoma with severe stage involvement, but the specific eye (right or left) is not documented. This code is appropriate when the physician explicitly states "severe stage" or provides clinical findings consistent with severe visual field defects, such as significant constriction or central scotoma.

• Only use this code when the affected eye is truly unspecified; otherwise, use the laterality-specific codes (H40.1113, H40.1123).
• Ensure the medical record clearly indicates "severe stage" or provides detailed visual field results supporting this severity.
• Do not confuse with other types of glaucoma (e.g., normal tension glaucoma, secondary glaucoma) or earlier stages of POAG.