ICD-10 Code H36.822 – Proliferative sickle-cell retinopathy, left eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H36.822 – Proliferative sickle-cell retinopathy, left eye
What it is
Use this code for proliferative sickle-cell retinopathy affecting the left eye. It identifies retinal neovascular changes linked to sickle cell disease, limited to the left eye.
Clinical signs
Findings may include retinal neovascularization, peripheral ischemic changes, and vitreous hemorrhage risk. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H36.822 when the record clearly states proliferative sickle-cell retinopathy in the left eye. It is appropriate when the ophthalmology note or assessment specifies laterality and confirms the proliferative form. If the eye or disease type is not documented, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonproliferative sickle-cell retinopathy or unspecified eye involvement. Do not assign it when the chart only mentions sickle cell disease without retinal involvement.
Coding tip
Verify both proliferative status and left-eye laterality in the provider note before assigning H36.822.