Diabetes due to undrl condition w oth diabetic opth comp

This code signifies diabetes mellitus that is a direct consequence of another underlying medical condition, such as cystic fibrosis, pancreatic disease, or certain genetic syndromes. The patient also presents with an ophthalmic complication, like diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, or cataracts, that is directly attributable to their diabetic state. This excludes complications that are not eye-related.

Apply this code when documentation clearly links the patient's diabetes to a specific underlying condition and identifies an ophthalmic complication caused by the diabetes. This is appropriate for patients with secondary diabetes (not Type 1 or Type 2) who are experiencing vision-related issues due to their diabetes. Ensure the medical record specifies both the underlying condition causing the diabetes and the particular eye complication.

• Always sequence the underlying condition causing the diabetes first, followed by this code.
• Do not use this code for Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes with ophthalmic complications; those have specific codes.
• Ensure the specific ophthalmic complication is also coded to provide maximum specificity.