ICD-10 Code H05.26 – Pulsating exophthalmos (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H05.26 – Pulsating exophthalmos
What it is
Pulsating exophthalmos is a protrusion of the eye that visibly or palpably moves with each heartbeat. It usually reflects an abnormal vascular connection or transmission of pulsation to the orbit.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include forward displacement of the globe with rhythmic pulsation. You may also see orbital bruit, conjunctival congestion, or other signs of vascular abnormality; clinical features vary, refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H05.26 when the provider documents pulsating exophthalmos as the diagnosis or a confirmed clinical finding. Apply it when the record describes pulsation of the eye, especially with an orbital vascular lesion or related abnormal communication. Check documentation if the note only mentions exophthalmos without pulsation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific exophthalmos, proptosis without pulsation, or general orbital swelling. If the chart does not clearly document pulsation, check documentation before coding.
Coding tip
Code the documented pulsation specifically; exophthalmos alone is not enough for H05.26.