ICD-10 Code H44.01 – Panophthalmitis (acute) (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H44.01 – Panophthalmitis (acute)
What it is
H44.01 identifies acute panophthalmitis, a severe inflammation involving all layers of the eye and nearby intraocular tissues. Use this code when documentation clearly states acute panophthalmitis.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include marked eye pain, redness, swelling, and decreased vision, with severe intraocular inflammation noted on exam.
When to use this code
Use H44.01 when the provider documents acute panophthalmitis or an equivalent diagnosis. Apply it for confirmed cases affecting the entire eye, not for vague eye infection notes. Check documentation if the record only says endophthalmitis or orbital cellulitis.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for chronic panophthalmitis or other localized ocular infections. If the note does not specifically confirm acute panophthalmitis, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify that “acute” is documented, because the ICD-10 code is specific to the acute form.