ICD-10 Code H31.023 – Solar retinopathy, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H31.023 – Solar retinopathy, bilateral
What it is
H31.023 identifies solar retinopathy affecting both eyes. It describes retinal injury from direct or prolonged exposure to intense light, most often sunlight or eclipse viewing.
Clinical signs
Patients may report blurred central vision, a central scotoma, or metamorphopsia after bright-light exposure. Fundus findings can include foveal changes; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H31.023 when the clinician documents bilateral solar retinopathy or bilateral retinal damage attributed to sun-gazing or eclipse exposure. Code it when both eyes are involved and the diagnosis is confirmed in the record.
If laterality is not stated, or the note only mentions suspected light injury, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for other retinal disorders, nonspecific visual disturbance, or unilateral solar retinopathy. If the record does not clearly support bilateral involvement, check documentation.
Coding tip
Match the code to explicit bilateral documentation and the exposure history; if either is unclear, query the provider.