ICD-10 Code H17.89 – Other corneal scars and opacities (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H17.89 – Other corneal scars and opacities
What it is
H17.89 identifies corneal scarring or opacity that is not classified elsewhere. Use it when the cornea has a residual cloudy or scarred area that affects transparency, and the documentation does not specify a more exact corneal disorder.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a visible corneal haze, scar, or opacity on eye examination. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the cause, location, and whether vision is affected.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents an old corneal scar, residual opacity, or similar corneal clouding without a more specific diagnosis. It may apply after prior injury, infection, or inflammation if the record describes the remaining corneal opacity rather than the original condition.
If the chart only notes “corneal opacity” or “corneal scar” and no more specific code is supported, this is often the appropriate choice. Check documentation to confirm laterality and whether another corneal diagnosis better explains the finding.
Do not use for
Do not use it for active corneal disease, edema, ulcer, dystrophy, or keratitis when those conditions are documented. Also avoid it when a more specific corneal scar or opacity code is available.
Coding tip
Code the documented residual corneal opacity, not the historical injury or infection, unless the provider links them clearly.