ICD-10 Code H17.81 – Minor opacity of cornea (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H17.81 – Minor opacity of cornea
What it is
H17.81 identifies a small or mild corneal opacity, meaning the clear front surface of the eye has a limited area of clouding or scar. It may affect vision if it lies in the visual axis.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a visible corneal haze, scar, or faint white opacity on slit-lamp exam. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H17.81 when the provider documents a minor corneal opacity as the diagnosis, especially after prior injury, inflammation, or infection. It fits cases where the opacity is present but not described as dense, central, or visually significant. If the record only notes corneal scarring without severity, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for major corneal opacity, active corneal ulcer, or other acute corneal disease. If the note describes a different corneal disorder, code that condition instead.
Coding tip
Code the opacity only when the provider documents it as a current diagnosis, not merely a historical eye finding.