ICD-10 Code H46.0 – Optic papillitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H46.0 – Optic papillitis
What it is
H46.0 identifies inflammation of the optic disc, also called optic papillitis. Use it when documentation specifically states optic papillitis rather than a broader optic nerve disorder.
Clinical signs
Common findings include decreased visual acuity, reduced color vision, and a swollen optic disc on eye exam. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H46.0 when the provider documents optic papillitis or papillitis of the optic nerve head. Apply it for confirmed inflammatory optic disc disease, including cases described on ophthalmology or neurology notes. If the record only says optic neuritis, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use H46.0 for nonspecific visual loss, papilledema, or optic neuritis unless papillitis is clearly documented. Check documentation for the exact diagnosis.
Coding tip
Code from the provider’s exact wording and confirm whether the inflammation is documented as papillitis, neuritis, or another optic nerve condition.