ICD-10 Code H18.739 – Descemetocele, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H18.739 – Descemetocele, unspecified eye
What it is
Descemetocele is a severe corneal thinning in which only Descemet’s membrane remains intact. The code H18.739 applies when the eye is not further specified.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include a very thin, bulging cornea with marked stromal loss and high risk of perforation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record documents a descemetocele in an unspecified eye and no laterality is stated. It may appear in ophthalmology notes, consults, or problem lists describing advanced corneal thinning. If the eye is identified, use the laterality-specific code instead.
Do not use for
Do not use it for simple corneal abrasion, ulcer, or thinning without descemetocele. Check documentation if the note describes corneal perforation or another corneal disorder instead.
Coding tip
Verify laterality carefully; unspecified eye codes should be used only when the chart truly does not identify the affected eye.