ICD-10 Code H44.02 – Vitreous abscess (chronic) (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H44.02 – Vitreous abscess (chronic)
What it is
H44.02 identifies a chronic abscess within the vitreous body of the eye, usually reflecting a persistent intraocular infection or inflammatory collection. Use it when documentation specifically states a chronic vitreous abscess.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include reduced vision, ocular inflammation, floaters, pain, or signs of intraocular infection on examination.
When to use this code
Use H44.02 when the provider documents a chronic vitreous abscess, vitreous infection, or a persistent abscess involving the vitreous body. It may also fit follow-up care when the condition remains active and is still being treated or monitored. Check documentation if the record only mentions endophthalmitis or another eye infection.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute vitreous abscess unless the record clearly states chronic. Avoid using it for nonspecific visual symptoms, vitreous floaters, or other ocular infections without vitreous abscess documentation.
Coding tip
Assign H44.02 only when “chronic” and “vitreous abscess” are explicitly documented together.