Vernal conjunctivitis

This code represents a chronic, bilateral allergic inflammatory condition of the conjunctiva, primarily affecting children and young adults. It is characterized by intense itching, tearing, photophobia, and the presence of giant papillae on the upper tarsal conjunctiva.

Use this code when documentation specifies vernal conjunctivitis without mention of corneal or limbal involvement. This diagnosis is typically made based on clinical presentation and patient history, often confirmed by an ophthalmologist.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "vernal conjunctivitis" and excludes any mention of keratoconjunctivitis or corneal/limbal involvement.
• Do not use this code if the patient also has limbal or corneal involvement; refer to the H16.26- series instead.
• Always review laterality (right, left, bilateral) if specified in the clinical notes, though this specific code is for unspecified laterality.