ICD-10 Code H50.16 – Alternating exotropia with A pattern (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H50.16 – Alternating exotropia with A pattern
What it is
H50.16 identifies an alternating outward eye deviation with an A-pattern. The deviation changes with gaze position, and either eye may fixate depending on alignment and examination findings.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include intermittent or constant exotropia that varies between upgaze and downgaze, consistent with A-pattern strabismus. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H50.16 when the record clearly documents alternating exotropia with an A-pattern, usually from ophthalmology or orthoptic evaluation. You may also use it when the provider specifies this exact strabismus pattern in the assessment or problem list. Check documentation if the pattern or laterality is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for exotropia without an A-pattern, or for esotropia and other non-exotropic deviations. Do not assign it if the note only says “strabismus” or “eye misalignment” without the specific diagnosis.
Coding tip
Code only when alternating exotropia and the A-pattern are both documented; otherwise, query for clarification.