ICD-10 Code H35.039 – Hypertensive retinopathy, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H35.039 – Hypertensive retinopathy, unspecified eye
What it is
This code identifies retinal changes caused by high blood pressure when the affected eye is not specified. Use it for hypertensive damage to the retina documented without laterality.
Clinical signs
Findings may include retinal arteriolar narrowing, hemorrhages, cotton-wool spots, or optic disc swelling. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H35.039 when the provider documents hypertensive retinopathy but does not state right, left, or bilateral eye. It also fits notes that confirm retinal damage from hypertension without more detail.
If the record specifies a particular eye, code to the laterality-specific option instead. Check documentation when the eye involved is unclear or when another retinal disorder is the primary diagnosis.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for hypertensive eye disease without retinal involvement, or when the condition is documented in a specific eye. Check documentation for the exact ocular site.
Coding tip
Confirm both the hypertension-related retinal diagnosis and the absence of laterality before assigning H35.039.