ICD-10 Code H46.9 – Unspecified optic neuritis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H46.9 – Unspecified optic neuritis
What it is
H46.9 identifies optic neuritis when the record does not specify the affected optic nerve, cause, or type. Use it for inflammation of the optic nerve with incomplete documentation.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include decreased vision, eye pain, and reduced color vision, often with pain on eye movement. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H46.9 when the provider documents optic neuritis but does not state whether it is retrobulbar, papillitis, or another specific form. It also fits when the chart confirms optic nerve inflammation without a clearer etiology. If later documentation identifies a more specific type, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for optic atrophy, papilledema, or visual loss without documented optic neuritis. Check documentation if the diagnosis is uncertain or if another eye disorder better explains the findings.
Coding tip
Query for laterality or cause when the note only says “optic neuritis” and may support a more specific code.