ICD-10 Code E08.329 – Diabetes mellitus due to underlying condition with mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy without macular edema (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code E08.329 – Diabetes mellitus due to underlying condition with mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy without macular edema
What it is
This code identifies diabetes caused by another underlying condition, with mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy in one or both eyes and no macular edema. Use it when the record links the diabetes and eye complication clearly.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Mild nonproliferative retinopathy usually means retinal microvascular changes such as microaneurysms or small hemorrhages, without signs of proliferative disease or macular swelling.
When to use this code
Use this code when the clinician documents diabetes due to an underlying condition and confirms mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy without macular edema. It fits ophthalmology or primary care notes that connect the retinal finding to the diabetic condition. Check laterality and any more specific retinopathy detail if documented.
Do not use for
Do not use it if the record does not specify diabetic retinopathy, if macular edema is present, or if the retinopathy is proliferative or more severe. Check documentation when the underlying condition causing diabetes is unclear.
Coding tip
Verify that the provider documents both the secondary diabetes and the exact eye complication before assigning E08.329.