Alternating heterophoria

This code represents a latent deviation of the eyes where the misalignment alternates between the two eyes, meaning one eye deviates while the other fixes, and then the other eye deviates while the first fixes. This condition is a type of heterophoria, which is an intermittent ocular misalignment that is only present when binocular fusion is disrupted.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates an alternating heterophoria, meaning the patient exhibits an intermittent ocular deviation that shifts between the left and right eyes. This diagnosis is typically made during an ophthalmological or optometric examination when specific tests reveal the alternating nature of the phoria.

• Differentiate from alternating heterotropia (strabismus), which is a constant deviation.
• Ensure documentation specifies "alternating" to distinguish from other types of heterophoria.
• Consider laterality if the documentation specifies a predominant eye, though this code is for the alternating nature.