Progressive external ophthalmoplegia, right eye

This code signifies a chronic, slowly progressive weakness of the extraocular muscles affecting the right eye. It is characterized by ptosis and ophthalmoparesis, often without diplopia in the early stages, and can be an isolated finding or part of a broader mitochondrial disorder.

Assign this code when documentation specifies progressive external ophthalmoplegia isolated to or predominantly affecting the right eye. Supporting documentation should include clinical findings such as right-sided ptosis, limited eye movements, and a diagnosis of progressive external ophthalmoplegia.

• Differentiate from other forms of ophthalmoplegia, such as acute or paralytic, which have distinct codes.
• Verify laterality; if bilateral, a different code (H49.43) would be appropriate.
• If this condition is secondary to a systemic mitochondrial disorder, sequence the underlying condition first, followed by this code.