ICD-10 Code H49.8 – Other paralytic strabismus (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H49.8 – Other paralytic strabismus
What it is
H49.8 identifies paralytic strabismus not otherwise specified elsewhere in the category. Use it when eye misalignment is caused by weakness or paralysis of an extraocular muscle and the documentation does not fit a more specific code.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ocular misalignment, limited eye movement, and diplopia when the affected eye cannot track normally. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents other paralytic strabismus and does not name a specific nerve palsy or more precise paralytic strabismus type. It may also apply when the chart describes paralytic ocular deviation but the exact cause or pattern is not specified. Check documentation for laterality and associated neurologic findings.
Do not use for
Do not use H49.8 for nonparalytic strabismus, accommodative esotropia, or congenital strabismus without paralysis. If a more specific paralytic strabismus code is documented, select that code instead.
Coding tip
If the note only says “strabismus,” verify whether paralysis is documented before assigning H49.8.