ICD-10 Code H35.0 – Background retinopathy and retinal vascular changes (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H35.0 – Background retinopathy and retinal vascular changes
What it is
H35.0 identifies nonproliferative retinal vascular or background retinopathic changes. Use it when the record describes retinal vessel abnormalities or background retinopathy without a more specific retinal disease.
Clinical signs
Findings may include retinal microaneurysms, hemorrhages, exudates, or vascular tortuosity on eye examination. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H35.0 when the ophthalmology note documents background retinopathy or nonspecific retinal vascular changes and no more detailed retinal diagnosis is given. It also fits follow-up visits when the condition is being monitored and the provider confirms the same retinal findings.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for proliferative retinopathy, retinal detachment, or macular disorders with a separate documented diagnosis. Check documentation if the chart names diabetic retinopathy or another specific cause.
Coding tip
Code the most specific retinal diagnosis documented; if the cause is stated, verify whether a more precise code applies.