Stenosis of unspecified lacrimal canaliculi

This code describes a narrowing or obstruction of the small drainage channels (canaliculi) that collect tears from the eye and direct them into the lacrimal sac, without specifying which canaliculus (upper or lower) is affected. This condition can lead to epiphora (excessive tearing) and recurrent infections due to impaired tear drainage.

Use this code when documentation indicates stenosis of the lacrimal canaliculi but does not specify the laterality (right, left, or bilateral) or the specific canaliculus involved. This code is appropriate when the physician's notes describe symptoms like persistent watering of the eye and a diagnosis of lacrimal canalicular stenosis without further anatomical detail.

• Avoid using this code if the documentation specifies laterality (e.g., right, left, or bilateral) or the specific canaliculus (e.g., superior, inferior); instead, use a more specific code from the H04.54 series.
• Ensure the medical record clearly supports a diagnosis of stenosis rather than other lacrimal system disorders like dacryocystitis (H04.3-).
• Consider sequencing this code with codes for associated symptoms, such as epiphora (H04.2-) or conjunctivitis (H10.-), if documented.