ICD-10 Code H54.2X21 – Low vision right eye category 2, low vision left eye category 1 (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H54.2X21 – Low vision right eye category 2, low vision left eye category 1
What it is
This code identifies low vision in both eyes with different severity levels: category 2 in the right eye and category 1 in the left eye. It is used when visual impairment remains after correction and affects daily functioning.
Clinical signs
Patients may report reduced visual acuity, difficulty reading, recognizing faces, or navigating in low light. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation and the recorded low-vision category for each eye.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly documents low vision category 2 in the right eye and category 1 in the left eye. It fits ophthalmology or optometry assessments that assign separate low-vision categories by eye.
Do not use it for temporary blurred vision, refractive error alone, or unspecified visual loss. If the laterality or category is not documented, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use for blindness, unilateral low vision only, or visual problems caused solely by refractive error. If the chart does not specify both eyes and categories, this code is not appropriate.
Coding tip
Verify each eye’s category separately and code only when the documentation supports the exact right-eye and left-eye combination.