ICD-10 Code A18.51 – Tuberculous episcleritis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A18.51 – Tuberculous episcleritis
What it is
This code identifies episcleritis caused by tuberculosis infection. Use it when the inflammation of the episclera is documented as tuberculous in origin.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include localized eye redness, mild discomfort, and episcleral inflammation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially when tuberculosis is confirmed elsewhere in the record.
When to use this code
Use A18.51 when the provider documents tuberculous episcleritis or clearly links episcleritis to tuberculosis. It may appear with ocular TB or systemic TB documentation. Code the condition only when the etiology is stated or supported in the chart.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific episcleritis, scleritis, or conjunctivitis without a tuberculous cause. Check documentation if the eye inflammation is present but tuberculosis is not confirmed.
Coding tip
Verify that tuberculosis is explicitly documented as the cause before assigning A18.51.