Chronic lacrimal canaliculitis of left lacrimal passage

This code signifies a persistent inflammation of the lacrimal canaliculus, the small drainage tube connecting the punctum to the lacrimal sac, specifically affecting the left eye. This chronic condition can lead to epiphora (excessive tearing), discharge, and potentially infection due to obstruction of tear flow.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a long-standing or recurrent inflammatory process of the left lacrimal canaliculus. Supporting documentation should include physician notes detailing symptoms like chronic epiphora, purulent discharge, tenderness, or swelling localized to the left medial canthus, and findings from an ophthalmological examination confirming canaliculitis.

• Ensure laterality is explicitly documented as "left" to support this specific code.
• Distinguish from acute canaliculitis (H04.41-) and dacryocystitis (H04.3-), which involves the lacrimal sac.
• Look for terms like "chronic," "recurrent," or "persistent" in the physician's notes to justify the chronic designation.