ICD-10 Code H35.36 – Drusen (degenerative) of macula (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H35.36 – Drusen (degenerative) of macula
What it is
H35.36 identifies drusen of the macula, which are yellowish deposits under the retina linked to age-related macular change. Use it when the record specifically documents degenerative macular drusen.
Clinical signs
Documentation may note drusen seen on fundus exam or retinal imaging, sometimes with no symptoms. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H35.36 when the provider records macular drusen, including incidental findings on eye examination or imaging. It is appropriate when the diagnosis is specifically degenerative drusen of the macula and no more specific retinal disorder is documented. Check documentation if the chart only says “retinal changes” or “macular degeneration.”
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific retinal findings or for age-related macular degeneration unless the record clearly states drusen of the macula. Do not assign it when documentation is unclear; check documentation.
Coding tip
Code only when the clinician names macular drusen explicitly; otherwise, query for clarification.