ICD-10 Code H35.449 – Age-related reticular degeneration of retina, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H35.449 – Age-related reticular degeneration of retina, unspecified eye
What it is
This code identifies age-related reticular degeneration of the retina when the affected eye is not specified. It refers to a retinal degeneration pattern associated with aging, documented as reticular rather than another macular disorder.
Clinical signs
Findings may include a reticular pattern on retinal examination or imaging, often described in the macula. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H35.449 when the provider documents age-related reticular degeneration and does not identify the right or left eye. It is appropriate for outpatient, specialist, or problem-list documentation when the diagnosis is confirmed in the record. If the note specifies laterality, code the more specific eye instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for other age-related macular degeneration types, such as exudative or dry forms, unless reticular degeneration is specifically documented. Do not use it when the eye is clearly identified and a laterality-specific code is available.
Coding tip
Check the ophthalmology note for laterality and exact retinal terminology before assigning the unspecified-eye code.