Varicella keratitis

This code identifies an inflammation of the cornea caused by the varicella-zoster virus, commonly known as chickenpox. It typically presents as a painful eye condition with corneal lesions, often occurring during or after a primary varicella infection or reactivation (shingles).

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states varicella-zoster virus as the etiology of keratitis. This includes cases of primary chickenpox infection affecting the cornea or reactivation of the virus causing ophthalmic zoster. Supporting documentation should detail the corneal involvement and the viral cause.

• Ensure the documentation clearly links the keratitis to varicella-zoster virus; do not assume viral etiology without explicit physician statement.
• Distinguish from other forms of viral keratitis (e.g., herpes simplex) which have different codes.
• Consider an additional code for the underlying varicella or zoster infection if still active and relevant to the encounter.