Conjunctivitis due to Acanthamoeba

This code identifies an inflammatory condition of the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the eyelid and covering the white part of the eye, specifically caused by an infection with Acanthamoeba species. This parasitic infection can lead to severe ocular pain, redness, photophobia, and vision impairment.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of conjunctivitis and laboratory confirmation or strong clinical suspicion points to Acanthamoeba as the causative agent. This is typically seen in patients with a history of contact lens wear, especially those with poor hygiene practices, or exposure to contaminated water.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "conjunctivitis" and specifies Acanthamoeba as the etiology.
• Do not confuse this with other forms of parasitic conjunctivitis or bacterial/viral conjunctivitis.
• Consider co-reporting with codes for keratitis if the cornea is also involved, as Acanthamoeba infections often progress to keratitis.