Onchocerciasis with glaucoma

This code signifies a parasitic infection caused by the nematode Onchocerca volvulus, commonly known as river blindness, specifically when it has led to the development of glaucoma. Onchocerciasis is characterized by skin and eye lesions, and in this particular manifestation, the parasitic infection has directly resulted in increased intraocular pressure and optic nerve damage consistent with glaucoma.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of onchocerciasis and a co-occurring diagnosis of glaucoma, with a direct causal link established between the two conditions. This code is appropriate when the patient's glaucoma is a sequela or complication of their onchocerciasis infection, as evidenced by ophthalmological examination and infectious disease workup.

• Ensure the medical record explicitly states that the glaucoma is due to or with onchocerciasis, not merely co-occurring.
• Do not use this code if the patient has onchocerciasis and a separate, unrelated diagnosis of glaucoma; in such cases, code both conditions individually.
• Consider additional codes for specific manifestations of onchocerciasis (e.g., skin involvement) or the specific type of glaucoma, if documented.