ICD-10 Code H18.52 – Epithelial (juvenile) corneal dystrophy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H18.52 – Epithelial (juvenile) corneal dystrophy
What it is
H18.52 identifies epithelial (juvenile) corneal dystrophy, a hereditary corneal disorder affecting the surface layer of the cornea. It can lead to recurrent epithelial irregularities and visual disturbance.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include corneal epithelial changes, recurrent erosions, or blurred vision, often noted on slit-lamp examination.
When to use this code
Use H18.52 when the provider documents epithelial (juvenile) corneal dystrophy by name or clearly describes this specific dystrophy. It is appropriate for confirmed hereditary corneal surface disease affecting the epithelium. Check documentation if the note only says “corneal dystrophy” without a subtype.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for other corneal dystrophies, nonspecific corneal opacity, or acquired corneal disease. If the record does not specify epithelial (juvenile) corneal dystrophy, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code only when the subtype is explicit; “corneal dystrophy” alone is not enough.