Trachoma, active stage

This code identifies the active, infectious stage of trachoma, a chronic keratoconjunctivitis caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. It is characterized by inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea, leading to follicular hypertrophy, papillary hyperplasia, and pannus formation. If left untreated, active trachoma can progress to scarring and blindness.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states active trachoma, indicating the presence of inflammatory signs such as follicular conjunctivitis, papillary hypertrophy, or corneal pannus. This diagnosis is typically made based on clinical examination and may be confirmed by laboratory testing for Chlamydia trachomatis.

• Differentiate from inactive or healed trachoma (e.g., 076.9), which would not use this code.
• Ensure documentation specifies "active" to support the use of this code.
• Consider co-reporting with codes for associated complications, such as trichiasis or corneal opacities, if present.