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A71.9: Trachoma, unspecified

You have an eye disease that is caused by specific bacteria. These bacteria are called chlamydia.

There are different types of chlamydia. This type occurs particularly in tropical areas, such as in Africa or South America. Chlamydia can be transmitted by an infected person.

The chlamydia can inflame the conjunctiva and cornea in the eye. The transparent conjunctiva covers the eye and the inside of the eyelids. Along with the tears, the conjunctiva forms a liquid film on the eye. Together, the conjunctiva, the eyelids, and the liquid film on the eye all protect the eye from external agents. The conjunctiva also helps defend against pathogens. The cornea is located at the front of the eye. It is transparent and curved. The curvature focuses light in the eye. This is vital to be able to see clearly.

When the conjunctiva is inflamed, the eye may be sore and itchy. Typically, the eye reddens. The eye may become more watery. You may find that bright light is unpleasant. When the cornea is inflamed, your sight may also deteriorate. You may also experience a cloudiness in your cornea.

If the bacteria keep spreading through the eye for a long time, papules may form in the conjunctiva. Over time the papules may turn into contracture scars. Contracture scars may also affect the conjunctiva in the eyelids. The scars may then make the edge of the eyelid turn inwards. This causes the eyelashes to touch the cornea.

The cornea may become damaged when the eyelashes keep brushing over it. As a result of the changes in the eye, other bacteria can also spread in it. If the disease is further advanced, you may also go blind.

Additional indicator

On medical documents, the ICD code is often appended by letters that indicate the diagnostic certainty or the affected side of the body.

  • G: Confirmed diagnosis
  • V: Tentative diagnosis
  • Z: Condition after
  • A: Excluded diagnosis
  • L: Left
  • R: Right
  • B: Both sides

Further information

Note

This information is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice from a doctor. If you find an ICD code on a personal medical document, please also note the additional indicator used for diagnostic confidence.
Your doctor will assist you with any health-related questions and explain the ICD diagnosis code to you in a direct consultation if necessary.

Source

Provided by the non-profit organization “Was hab’ ich?” gemeinnützige GmbH on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Health (BMG).