Vitamin A deficiency w Bitot's spot and conjunctival xerosis

This code signifies a nutritional deficiency characterized by inadequate vitamin A, manifesting with specific ocular signs. These signs include Bitot's spots, which are foamy, triangular patches on the conjunctiva, and conjunctival xerosis, indicating dryness of the conjunctiva. These are early and reversible signs of vitamin A deficiency.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of vitamin A deficiency accompanied by both Bitot's spots and conjunctival xerosis. This diagnosis is typically made based on clinical examination findings. Supporting documentation should detail the presence of both specific ocular manifestations.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states both "Bitot's spot" and "conjunctival xerosis" in the context of vitamin A deficiency.
• Do not use this code if only one of the ocular manifestations is present; other codes exist for isolated findings or different stages of vitamin A deficiency.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis if it is the main reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is a co-morbidity being managed.