Alternating esotropia

This code describes a form of strabismus where one eye turns inward (esotropia), and the deviation alternates between the left and right eye. Unlike unilateral esotropia, both eyes have the potential to fixate, but only one eye is fixating at a time while the other turns inward. This condition can lead to amblyopia if not corrected, especially in early childhood.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates an inward turning of the eye that alternates between the left and right eye. This diagnosis is typically made during an ophthalmological examination, often involving cover/uncover and alternate cover tests. Supporting documentation should specify the alternating nature of the esotropia.

• Differentiate from H50.00 (unspecified esotropia) and H50.01-H50.04 (unilateral esotropia) based on the alternating characteristic.
• Ensure the medical record explicitly states "alternating" to support the use of this specific code.
• Consider co-occurring conditions like amblyopia (H53.0x) or refractive errors, and code them separately as appropriate.