Dry eye syndrome of bilateral lacrimal glands

This code signifies a chronic condition characterized by insufficient tear production or poor tear quality affecting both lacrimal glands, leading to ocular surface irritation and discomfort. Patients typically experience symptoms such as dryness, burning, foreign body sensation, and blurred vision due to inadequate lubrication of the eyes.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states "dry eye syndrome" or "keratoconjunctivitis sicca" affecting both eyes, with the etiology specifically attributed to the lacrimal glands. This diagnosis is often supported by clinical findings like reduced Schirmer's test results, tear film breakup time, or corneal staining.

• Ensure documentation specifies "bilateral" involvement of the lacrimal glands; otherwise, laterality codes (H04.121, H04.122) or unspecified (H04.129) may be more appropriate.
• Distinguish from other forms of dry eye not primarily attributed to lacrimal gland dysfunction, such as evaporative dry eye.
• Consider co-reporting with codes for underlying systemic conditions (e.g., Sjögren's syndrome) if documented as the cause.