ICD-10 Code H35.43 – Paving stone degeneration of retina (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H35.43 – Paving stone degeneration of retina
What it is
Paving stone degeneration is a peripheral retinal degeneration with discrete areas of chorioretinal atrophy. It is usually an incidental finding and often has no visual symptoms.
Clinical signs
Examination may show round or oval pale lesions in the peripheral retina, often with sharply defined borders. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H35.43 when the provider documents paving stone degeneration, retinal paving stone degeneration, or chorioretinal atrophy described as paving stone changes. Code it when the finding is documented as a diagnosis, not merely as a nonspecific retinal abnormality.
If the note mentions a different retinal degeneration or another eye disorder, confirm the exact condition before assigning this code. Check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for retinal tears, detachment, or macular degeneration. Do not assign it when the record only says “retinal changes” without naming paving stone degeneration.
Coding tip
Match the code to the provider’s exact retinal diagnosis and location wording; if the documentation is vague, query for clarification.