Marginal corneal ulcer, bilateral

This code signifies an inflammatory lesion located at the periphery of both corneas, often characterized by a crescent-shaped ulceration. These ulcers typically involve the superficial layers of the cornea and are frequently associated with underlying systemic conditions or ocular surface disease.

Assign this code when documentation specifies marginal corneal ulcers affecting both eyes. This diagnosis is supported by ophthalmological examination findings detailing the location, morphology, and bilateral presentation of the corneal ulceration.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, use the appropriate unilateral code.
• Distinguish from central corneal ulcers or other corneal dystrophies, which have different ICD-10-CM codes.
• Look for associated systemic conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) that may require additional coding.