Chalazion

This code identifies a chalazion, which is a chronic, sterile, lipogranulomatous inflammation of a meibomian gland within the eyelid. It presents as a painless, firm, and often slowly enlarging nodule on the eyelid, distinct from an acute hordeolum.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of chalazion, often characterized by a non-tender, firm lump in the eyelid. This code is appropriate for both upper and lower eyelid involvement. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing the presence and characteristics of the eyelid lesion consistent with a chalazion.

• Differentiate from acute hordeolum (stye), which is an acute bacterial infection and coded differently.
• Do not use for recurrent chalazion if the current encounter is for a new, distinct lesion.
• Consider laterality if specified in documentation, though this ICD-9 code does not differentiate.