ICD-10 Code E50.0 – Vitamin A deficiency with conjunctival xerosis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code E50.0 – Vitamin A deficiency with conjunctival xerosis
What it is
E50.0 identifies vitamin A deficiency when it has caused conjunctival xerosis, a dryness of the eye’s conjunctiva. Use it when the record links the deficiency to this specific ocular finding.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include dry, dull conjunctiva and eye irritation related to vitamin A deficiency. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the documented eye changes and whether xerosis is specifically noted.
When to use this code
Use E50.0 when the clinician documents vitamin A deficiency with conjunctival xerosis, or when the diagnosis clearly states both conditions together. It is appropriate when the eye finding is attributed to the deficiency. If the chart only says vitamin A deficiency without conjunctival xerosis, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for vitamin A deficiency without ocular involvement. Avoid it when the record describes other eye disorders, such as corneal disease, unless conjunctival xerosis is specifically documented.
Coding tip
Code E50.0 only when conjunctival xerosis is explicitly documented as part of the vitamin A deficiency diagnosis.