Discover free eBooks, guides and med spa templates on our new resources page

Book a demo
☰
Why us
ICD Hub / Diseases of the visual system (H00–H59) / 9A00.1 - Telecanthus
ICD-11

ICD-11 Codes
for 9A00.1 - Telecanthus
Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970
Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski
Use Code

Causes and Risk Factors

Telecanthus can be congenital, often stemming from genetic disorders such as Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, or Fetal alcohol syndrome. It can also arise later in life due to traumatic injuries to the face, including naso-orbital ethmoid fractures, or following the surgical removal of tumours near the eyelids. The underlying mechanism involves an abnormality in the length or insertion of the medial canthal tendons, which are responsible for positioning the inner corners of the eyelids.

Clinical Overview

Telecanthus is a palpebral anomaly defined by an increased distance between the medial canthi, the inner corners of the eyelids. This condition is distinct from hypertelorism, where the distance between the entire eyes is increased. While telecanthus itself does not typically cause pain or vision impairment, it frequently occurs as a symptom of various congenital disorders that may affect other bodily systems or lead to vision problems.

Synonyms and Alternative Terms

This condition is also known by the term dystopia canthorum. In some contexts, it may be referred to as pseudohypertelorism.

Common Symptoms and Presentation

The primary characteristic of telecanthus is the noticeable widening of the space between the inner corners of the eyes. Crucially, the distance between the pupils (interpupillary distance) remains within the normal range, differentiating it from hypertelorism. Telecanthus on its own usually does not impact vision or cause discomfort. However, when associated with other congenital conditions, patients may experience reduced visual acuity, myopia (nearsightedness), or hyperopia (farsightedness). Emotional or psychological distress due to the appearance can also be a presentation.

Treatment and Management Considerations

Surgical intervention is the primary treatment for telecanthus, often pursued for cosmetic reasons or to address functional concerns. Surgical techniques may include tendon shortening and fixation for congenital cases or transnasal wiring for traumatic telecanthus. In instances where telecanthus is mild and does not affect vision or self-esteem, treatment may not be necessary. Management may also involve addressing any underlying genetic disorders or associated health issues.

Documentation and Coding Considerations

For accurate medical records and billing, telecanthus is officially classified under the ICD-11 code 9A00.1. Common clinical synonyms such as dystopia canthorum should be noted in patient documentation. When coding, it is essential to capture the specific ICD-11 code 9A00.1. If telecanthus is part of a broader syndrome, such as Syndactyly-telecanthus-anogenital and renal malformations syndrome (ICD-11 code LD2F.1Y), or other congenital malpositions of eyelids (9A00), all relevant conditions should be documented and coded appropriately to ensure comprehensive patient care and accurate reporting.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ICD-11 code for Telecanthus?
Telecanthus is classified under the ICD-11 code 9A00.1.
Under which broader category does Telecanthus fall in the ICD-11 classification?
Telecanthus falls under the category 9A00 Congenital malposition of eyelids in the ICD-11 classification.
How is Telecanthus defined within the ICD-11 classification system?
Within the ICD-11 classification, Telecanthus refers to an increased distance between the inner corners of the eyelids (medial canthi) while the interpupillary distance remains normal.
×