Chronic dacryoadenitis, unspecified lacrimal gland

This code signifies a persistent, non-specific inflammation of the lacrimal gland, which is responsible for tear production. It indicates a long-standing inflammatory process affecting the tear-producing gland without further specification of the exact gland involved (e.g., right or left).

Apply this code when documentation confirms chronic inflammation of the lacrimal gland, and the laterality (right or left) is not specified by the provider. This diagnosis is typically made based on clinical examination findings and patient history indicating a prolonged course of symptoms such as swelling, pain, or discharge in the periorbital area.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "chronic" and "dacryoadenitis" and lacks laterality.
• If laterality is documented (e.g., right or left), use the more specific codes H04.021 or H04.022.
• Distinguish from acute dacryoadenitis (H04.01-) which represents a sudden onset and shorter duration of inflammation.