ICD 10 CM E08.321 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 E08.321 describes a medical condition characterized by insufficient production or utilization of insulin, resulting in elevated levels of blood glucose, accompanied by mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) and macular edema, without the subsequent growth of new blood vessels of the retina, and commonly caused by underlying conditions such as cystic fibrosis, malignant neoplasm, malnutrition, pancreatitis, and Cushing syndrome.

Official Description Of E08.321

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code E08.321 as:

Clinical Information

The diagnosis described by ICD 10 CM E08.321 is a condition called Nonproliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR), which occurs when lesions are present in the retina. These lesions consist of microaneurysms, small dot and blot hemorrhages, splinter hemorrhages, and intraretinal microvascular abnormalities that can affect vision. The severity of NPDR can vary from mild to moderate or severe.

NPDR presents with symptoms such as pain in the eyes, blurred vision, double vision, headache, cataract, glaucoma, dizziness, and even blindness in severe cases. Patients with diabetes mellitus are at a higher risk of developing NPDR with macular edema, which can lead to an accumulation of fluid in the macula. General symptoms include increased urinary frequency and thirst, extreme hunger, fatigue, weight loss, and frequent infections. Additional symptoms depend on the underlying condition and may include weakness, pain, difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, anemia, high blood pressure, and night sweats.

Health care providers diagnose NPDR with a thorough medical history, a physical and ophthalmic examination, along with any relevant signs and symptoms. Laboratory tests, such as blood tests for fasting plasma glucose and levels of HbA1c, lipid profile, urine and stool examination, provide additional information to support the diagnosis. Imaging tests, such as plain X-ray and ultrasound of the abdomen to detect pancreatic calcification, fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and color fundus for eye examination, can also help confirm the diagnosis.

The treatment of NPDR depends on the underlying cause of the illness. It is crucial to control metabolic and blood pressure to ensure optimal eye care. Effective treatment involves using Laser photocoagulation and steroids to reduce inflammation and macular edema. In severe cases, eye surgery, such as vitrectomy, may be necessary to reduce pressure or correct nerve damage.

To treat the underlying condition leading to NPDR, healthcare providers may use corticosteroids, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, antibiotics or surgery. Diabetes mellitus, one of the leading causes of NPDR, is treated with non-insulin and insulin therapies, depending on the level of glucose in the blood.

In summary, NPDR is a condition that affects the retina and can lead to vision loss. Diagnosing the illness involves a thorough medical history, physical and ophthalmic examination, and laboratory and imaging tests. Treatment of NPDR aims to control metabolic and blood pressure and may require the use of Laser therapy, steroids or surgery. Management of the underlying cause of NPDR is equally important and may involve the use of medications or surgery, depending on the patient’s condition. Ongoing care and attention are essential to maintaining optimal vision and preventing further complications.