ICD-10 Code E13.34 – Other specified diabetes mellitus with severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code E13.34 – Other specified diabetes mellitus with severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy
What it is
This code identifies diabetes mellitus in the “other specified” category with severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. Use it when the record links a specific non–type 1 or type 2 diabetes form to advanced retinal disease.
Clinical signs
Severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy is marked by extensive retinal vascular damage, such as widespread hemorrhages or venous changes. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation and ophthalmology findings.
When to use this code
Use E13.34 when the provider documents other specified diabetes mellitus and states severe nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy. It is appropriate for encounters focused on diabetic eye disease, retinal follow-up, or diabetes-related complication review. Confirm the diabetes type is not coded elsewhere.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if the chart shows proliferative retinopathy, macular edema only, or a different diabetes category such as type 1 or type 2. Check documentation if the severity or diabetes type is unclear.
Coding tip
Code both the diabetes category and the documented retinopathy severity exactly as stated; do not infer severity from general eye-disease wording.