Retrolental fibroplasia, bilateral

This code describes retrolental fibroplasia (RLF) affecting both eyes. RLF, also known as retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), is an eye disorder that primarily affects premature infants, causing abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina and potentially leading to retinal detachment and vision impairment.

Use this code when documentation specifies bilateral involvement of retrolental fibroplasia or retinopathy of prematurity. This diagnosis is typically made by an ophthalmologist following an eye exam in a premature infant. Supporting documentation should clearly indicate the presence of ROP in both eyes.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, use the appropriate unilateral or unspecified code.
• Do not confuse this with other retinal disorders not specifically related to prematurity.
• Always sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is a co-morbidity.