Vitamin A deficiency with corneal xerosis

This code signifies a nutritional deficiency of Vitamin A that has progressed to affect the eye, specifically causing dryness and thickening of the conjunctiva and cornea. This ocular manifestation, known as xerosis, is an early and reversible sign of severe Vitamin A deficiency. Without intervention, it can lead to more severe vision impairment.

This code is appropriate for patients diagnosed with Vitamin A deficiency exhibiting clinical signs of corneal xerosis. Documentation should clearly indicate a diagnosis of Vitamin A deficiency and describe the presence of corneal dryness or thickening, often noted during an ophthalmological examination. It is typically used when the ocular manifestation is the primary reason for the encounter or a significant co-morbidity.

• Ensure documentation specifies "corneal xerosis" and not just general "dry eye" to support this specific code.
• Consider co-reporting with codes for underlying causes of Vitamin A deficiency, such as malabsorption syndromes, if applicable.
• Distinguish from other forms of xerophthalmia; this code specifically denotes corneal involvement due to Vitamin A deficiency.