ICD-10 Code H17.823 – Peripheral opacity of cornea, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H17.823 – Peripheral opacity of cornea, bilateral
What it is
This code identifies a cloudy or scarred area at the outer edge of both corneas. It means the opacity is present in each eye and is located peripherally, not centrally.
Clinical signs
Findings may include visible peripheral corneal haze, scarring, or loss of normal corneal clarity. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality and whether the opacity is peripheral.
When to use this code
Use H17.823 when the record documents bilateral peripheral corneal opacity as the diagnosis. This may be appropriate when an eye exam notes bilateral peripheral scarring, haze, or opacity without a more specific underlying condition coded elsewhere.
Do not guess laterality from a general corneal opacity note. Check documentation if the provider does not clearly state both eyes and peripheral location.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for central corneal opacity, unilateral opacity, or nonspecific corneal clouding. Check documentation when the finding is part of another defined corneal disorder.
Coding tip
Confirm both laterality and the peripheral location before assigning H17.823.