ICD-10 Code H18.1 – Bullous keratopathy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H18.1 – Bullous keratopathy
What it is
Bullous keratopathy is corneal swelling that leads to blister-like epithelial bullae on the eye’s surface. It usually reflects endothelial dysfunction or other causes of corneal edema.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include corneal edema, epithelial bullae, blurred vision, pain, and light sensitivity. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H18.1 when the provider documents bullous keratopathy as the diagnosis, including edema-related corneal bullae. It may apply after eye surgery, trauma, or chronic endothelial failure when that condition is specifically identified. If the note only says corneal edema, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not assign this code for conjunctival bullae, corneal abrasion, or nonspecific eye pain without documented bullous keratopathy. Check documentation if the record describes another corneal disorder.
Coding tip
Confirm the provider names bullous keratopathy rather than only corneal edema before coding H18.1.