ICD-10 Code H04.549 – Stenosis of unspecified lacrimal canaliculi (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H04.549 – Stenosis of unspecified lacrimal canaliculi
What it is
This code identifies narrowing of one or both lacrimal canaliculi when the record does not specify which canaliculus is affected. It refers to an anatomic blockage in the tear drainage pathway.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include tearing, poor tear drainage, and possible recurrent eye irritation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially if the note confirms canalicular narrowing rather than another cause of epiphora.
When to use this code
Use H04.549 when the provider documents stenosis of the lacrimal canaliculi but does not identify the right or left side. It is appropriate for outpatient, specialty, or surgical records describing canalicular narrowing as the diagnosis. If the note only says tearing without a confirmed cause, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for punctal stenosis, nasolacrimal duct obstruction, or nonspecific epiphora without documented canalicular stenosis. Check documentation when the record names a different tear drainage structure.
Coding tip
Assign the unspecified code only when laterality is truly absent; if the chart identifies a side, choose the more specific code instead.