Pseudomembranous conjunctivitis, unspecified eye

This code signifies a severe form of conjunctivitis characterized by the formation of a true membrane on the conjunctival surface, which, when peeled, leaves a bleeding surface. This condition is typically caused by bacterial infections, most commonly Corynebacterium diphtheriae or Streptococcus pyogenes, but can also be viral. The "unspecified eye" designation indicates that the laterality of the condition was not documented.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of pseudomembranous conjunctivitis without specifying whether it affects the right, left, or both eyes. This applies when the physician's notes describe the characteristic membrane formation and the condition's severity but omit laterality.

• Avoid using this code if the documentation specifies laterality (e.g., right eye, left eye, bilateral); instead, select the more specific H10.221, H10.222, or H10.223.
• Ensure the documentation differentiates pseudomembranous from membranous conjunctivitis, as the latter involves a less adherent membrane.
• Always query the provider for laterality if it is not documented to allow for more specific coding.