ICD 10 CM A71.0 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 A71.0 describes the early stage of trachoma, a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, which is typically spread through contact with infected nasal or eye secretions or through contact with flies that have come in contact with such secretions, and while the initial stage, also known as trachoma dubium, may not present with many symptoms, patients may exhibit signs of inflammation of the conjunctiva.

Official Description Of A71.0

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code A71.0 as:

When To Use A71.0

The diagnosis describes by ICD 10 CM code A71.0 pertains to trachoma, an infectious disease of the eyes, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Trachoma is one of the oldest recorded diseases that still afflict people today, especially in developing countries with poor hygiene and limited access to medical care.

A patient in the initial stage of trachoma may have almost no symptoms or experience mild symptoms such as itching, redness of eyes, and photophobia or sensitivity to light. As the disease progresses, these symptoms can worsen and lead to blurred vision and pain. Eventually, trachoma can cause scarring of the eyelid, which can lead to the inward turning of eyelashes and ultimately blindness.

Providers typically diagnose trachoma based on the history of travel to endemic areas, symptoms, and examination of the eyes. They may also collect samples of ocular discharge to detect the organism with nucleic acid amplification tests and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) studies. This testing can confirm the diagnosis and help providers develop a treatment plan.

Treatment for trachoma includes a combination of oral antibiotics, such as azithromycin and doxycycline, and eye ointment containing tetracycline or erythromycin. These medications can help clear the infection, reduce or eliminate symptoms, and prevent further complications. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct eyelid deformities, but this is rare.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a global effort to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem by the year 2030. This effort includes a multi-faceted approach that includes mass distribution of antibiotics, surgery for advanced cases, and public health education about good hygiene practices. The WHO estimates that up to 190 million people worldwide are at risk of trachoma, and up to 2.2 million people are visually impaired or blind as a result of this disease.

Preventing trachoma is critical to reducing the burden of this disease. Good hygiene practices, such as washing hands and faces regularly and avoiding sharing towels, can help reduce the transmission of trachoma. Avoiding contact with flies, which can spread the disease, can also be helpful. Additionally, early detection and treatment of trachoma can prevent complications and improve outcomes for patients.

In conclusion, trachoma is a serious eye infection caused by a bacterium that can lead to blindness if not treated promptly. The ICD 10 CM code A71.0 describes this condition and helps providers diagnose and treat patients effectively. As the WHO works towards eliminating trachoma worldwide, it is critical that providers and patients alike are aware of the symptoms and risk factors for this disease and take steps to prevent its spread.