ICD-10 Code G44.05 – Short lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G44.05 – Short lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT)
What it is
G44.05 identifies SUNCT, a rare primary headache disorder with brief, repeated attacks of severe unilateral head pain. The name reflects the typical eye redness and tearing on the same side as the pain.
Clinical signs
Attacks are usually short, frequent, and strictly one-sided, often centered around the eye or temple. Conjunctival injection and tearing are characteristic; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use G44.05 when the provider documents SUNCT or short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache with conjunctival injection and tearing. Code it when the diagnosis is established, even if the note focuses on recurrent unilateral orbital pain with autonomic eye findings. Check documentation if the presentation is incomplete.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unspecified headache, migraine, cluster headache, or other trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias unless SUNCT is specifically documented. If the record does not confirm SUNCT, check documentation.
Coding tip
Look for the full SUNCT wording or clear documentation of the syndrome before assigning G44.05.