ICD-10 Code E08.321 – Diabetes mellitus due to underlying condition with mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy with macular edema (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code E08.321 – Diabetes mellitus due to underlying condition with mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy with macular edema
What it is
This code identifies diabetes caused by another underlying condition, with mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy and macular edema in the eye. Use it when the record links both the secondary diabetes and the retinal complication.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include diabetic retinal microvascular changes and swelling in the macula, often noted on ophthalmic exam or imaging.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents diabetes due to an underlying condition and specifically states mild nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy with macular edema. The eye complication must be associated with the diabetes in the record. If the underlying condition is not documented, check documentation before assigning the code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for diabetes without documented retinopathy or without macular edema. Do not use it when the record describes a different diabetic eye complication or does not confirm diabetes due to an underlying condition.
Coding tip
Verify that both the secondary diabetes and the exact eye complication are documented before coding E08.321.