ICD-10 Code H16.149 – Punctate keratitis, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H16.149 – Punctate keratitis, unspecified eye
What it is
H16.149 identifies punctate keratitis affecting an unspecified eye. Use it when documentation describes small corneal epithelial lesions or superficial keratitis, but does not specify right or left eye.
Clinical signs
Findings may include corneal staining, irritation, foreign-body sensation, tearing, photophobia, or blurred vision. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents punctate keratitis and does not identify the affected eye. It also fits notes that describe punctate corneal inflammation without a laterality statement. If the record names a specific eye, code that laterality instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for other keratitis types, corneal ulcer, or conjunctivitis. Check documentation if the note is nonspecific or if another corneal disorder is recorded.
Coding tip
Confirm laterality before assigning H16.149; unspecified eye codes are appropriate only when the chart truly lacks right-versus-left detail.