ICD-10 Code H47.012 – Ischemic optic neuropathy, left eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H47.012 – Ischemic optic neuropathy, left eye
What it is
H47.012 identifies ischemic optic neuropathy affecting the left eye. It means the optic nerve has been injured by reduced blood flow, leading to sudden vision loss or visual disturbance.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden, painless decreased vision in the left eye, with visual field loss and optic disc swelling on exam. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H47.012 when the provider documents ischemic optic neuropathy specifically in the left eye. Apply it for confirmed unilateral cases, including notes that describe acute optic nerve ischemia with left-sided involvement.
If the record only says optic neuropathy without laterality or does not confirm ischemia, check documentation before coding. Do not assume the left eye when the chart is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for optic neuropathy in the right eye, bilateral disease, or nonspecific optic nerve disorders. Check documentation if the cause is another eye condition.
Coding tip
Always verify laterality and whether the provider explicitly links the optic neuropathy to ischemia before assigning H47.012.