ICD-10 Code H51.0 – Palsy (spasm) of conjugate gaze (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H51.0 – Palsy (spasm) of conjugate gaze
What it is
H51.0 identifies a disorder of horizontal gaze control, where both eyes cannot move together normally in the same direction. Use it for documented palsy or spasm of conjugate gaze, not for general eye movement complaints.
Clinical signs
Findings may include inability to look to one side together, abnormal gaze deviation, or involuntary eye movement patterns. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H51.0 when the provider documents palsy or spasm of conjugate gaze as the diagnosis. It is appropriate when the chart describes impaired coordinated eye movement affecting both eyes together, including neurologic gaze abnormalities. Check documentation if the record is nonspecific.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for isolated diplopia, nystagmus, or nonspecific blurred vision unless conjugate gaze palsy is actually documented. Do not assign it when the note only says “eye movement abnormality” without a clearer diagnosis.
Coding tip
Confirm that the provider names the gaze palsy or spasm explicitly before coding H51.0.