ICD-10 Code H18.72 – Corneal staphyloma (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H18.72 – Corneal staphyloma
What it is
Corneal staphyloma is an abnormal bulging of the cornea, usually from severe thinning and scarring. It reflects advanced structural damage of the cornea and may distort vision.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a protruding, opaque, or scarred cornea and marked visual impairment. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H18.72 when the clinician documents corneal staphyloma or an equivalent diagnosis of corneal bulging due to severe corneal disease. It may be appropriate in records describing a longstanding, deformed cornea with scarring or thinning. Check documentation if the note only mentions corneal opacity or ectasia.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for general corneal scars, ulcers, or ectasia without documented staphyloma. If the condition is not clearly identified, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the documented diagnosis exactly; do not infer staphyloma from appearance alone.