ICD-10 Code H26.00 – Unspecified Infantile and Juvenile Cataract (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H26.00 – Unspecified infantile and juvenile cataract
What it is
H26.00 identifies a cataract present in infancy or childhood when the type is not further specified. Use it for lens opacity in a young patient when documentation does not name a congenital, traumatic, or other defined cause.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include reduced visual acuity, abnormal red reflex, or a visible lens opacity. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially when the chart does not clearly distinguish unilateral from bilateral disease.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents an infantile or juvenile cataract but does not specify the subtype. It also fits cases where the record confirms cataract in a child and no more detailed category is available. Check documentation if another cause, such as trauma or a systemic disorder, is stated.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for adult age-related cataract, traumatic cataract, or cataracts with a documented underlying condition that has a more specific code. If the chart identifies a congenital cataract category, code that instead.
Coding tip
Before assigning H26.00, verify the patient’s age and look for any documented etiology or laterality that would support a more specific code.