Vitamin A deficiency with keratomalacia

This code represents a severe form of vitamin A deficiency characterized by keratomalacia, a destructive eye condition involving drying, clouding, and softening of the cornea. This can lead to corneal ulceration, perforation, and ultimately blindness if untreated.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of vitamin A deficiency accompanied by keratomalacia. This typically occurs in cases of severe malnutrition or malabsorption. Supporting documentation should detail the ocular findings consistent with corneal softening and destruction.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "keratomalacia" in conjunction with vitamin A deficiency.
• Do not use this code for less severe forms of vitamin A deficiency without corneal involvement.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis if it is the main reason for the encounter.