ICD-10 Code H44.13 – Sympathetic uveitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H44.13 – Sympathetic uveitis
What it is
H44.13 identifies sympathetic uveitis, an inflammatory eye condition that develops in the uninjured eye after penetrating trauma or surgery to the other eye. It reflects a bilateral immune response affecting the uveal tract.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include redness, pain, photophobia, blurred vision, and intraocular inflammation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for evidence of bilateral uveitis after ocular injury or surgery.
When to use this code
Use H44.13 when the record specifically documents sympathetic uveitis or sympathetic ophthalmia involving the fellow eye after trauma or an operative event in the other eye. Code from the provider’s stated diagnosis, not from suspicion alone. Check documentation if the laterality or cause is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific uveitis, iritis, or postoperative inflammation without documentation of sympathetic uveitis. It is also not appropriate when the condition is unrelated to prior injury of the opposite eye.
Coding tip
Link the diagnosis to the documented prior ocular injury or surgery when present, and verify that the provider names sympathetic uveitis.