Panophthalmitis (acute), bilateral

This code signifies a severe, acute inflammation affecting all intraocular structures of both eyes. Panophthalmitis involves the retina, choroid, ciliary body, iris, and vitreous, often extending to the sclera and orbital tissues. It typically results in significant vision loss and can lead to globe rupture or enucleation if not aggressively treated.

Assign this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of acute panophthalmitis affecting both eyes. This diagnosis is typically supported by ophthalmological examination findings such as diffuse intraocular inflammation, hypopyon, vitritis, and often evidence of an infectious etiology. Use this code for cases where the condition is explicitly bilateral.

• Ensure documentation specifies "acute" and "bilateral" to support this precise code.
• Distinguish from endophthalmitis (H44.00-H44.02-), which is inflammation primarily of the vitreous and aqueous humor, not all intraocular structures.
• Code any underlying infectious agent (e.g., bacterial, fungal) as an additional diagnosis, following sequencing guidelines.