Aqueous misdirection, unspecified eye

This code describes aqueous misdirection syndrome, also known as malignant glaucoma, where the aqueous humor is misdirected into the posterior segment of the eye, causing anterior displacement of the iris and lens, and subsequent angle closure glaucoma. This condition typically occurs post-surgically, often after glaucoma filtration surgery, but can also be spontaneous. It results in elevated intraocular pressure due to the blockage of aqueous outflow.

Use this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of aqueous misdirection syndrome, and the specific eye affected is not specified. This diagnosis is often made clinically based on characteristic findings such as shallow anterior chamber, elevated intraocular pressure, and absence of pupillary block or choroidal effusion. Supporting documentation would include ophthalmological examination notes detailing these findings.

• Only use this code when the laterality (left, right, or bilateral) is truly unspecified in the medical record.
• Distinguish from other forms of secondary angle-closure glaucoma, such as pupillary block glaucoma or phacomorphic glaucoma.
• Ensure the documentation clearly indicates aqueous misdirection as the underlying cause of the glaucoma, not merely elevated intraocular pressure.