Day blindness

This code represents hemeralopia, a condition characterized by impaired vision in bright light or daylight, with relatively better vision in dim light or at night. It is often associated with retinal disorders, cone dysfunction, or certain nutritional deficiencies.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states "day blindness" or "hemeralopia." It is appropriate for congenital forms, as well as acquired forms resulting from conditions like cone dystrophy, retinitis pigmentosa, or vitamin A deficiency. Ensure the physician's notes clearly indicate the patient experiences significant visual impairment in bright light.

• Differentiate from nyctalopia (night blindness), which has a distinct ICD-10-CM code.
• Always look for an underlying cause to code first, if known and documented (e.g., specific retinal dystrophy).
• Documentation should specify the type of visual disturbance to avoid confusion with other vision impairments.