Glaucomatous optic atrophy, right eye

This diagnosis code signifies damage to the optic nerve in the right eye specifically caused by glaucoma, leading to a loss of nerve fibers and characteristic changes in the optic disc. This atrophy results in visual field defects and can ultimately lead to blindness if untreated.

This code is appropriate for documenting a patient's diagnosis of optic nerve damage in the right eye that is directly attributable to glaucoma. Supporting documentation should include ophthalmological examination findings detailing optic disc cupping, rim thinning, or pallor, along with a confirmed diagnosis of glaucoma affecting the right eye.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "glaucomatous" optic atrophy to differentiate from other causes of optic nerve damage.
• Always code the underlying type of glaucoma (e.g., primary open-angle glaucoma, secondary glaucoma) first, followed by this code for the manifestation.
• Verify laterality. If both eyes are affected, separate codes for each eye (H47.231 and H47.232) or a bilateral code (H47.233) should be used as appropriate.