ICD-10 Code E50.5 – Vitamin A deficiency with night blindness (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code E50.5 – Vitamin A deficiency with night blindness
What it is
E50.5 identifies vitamin A deficiency when night blindness is present. Use it for documented deficiency affecting vision in dim light, not for vague eye complaints without confirmation.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include poor vision in low light and other signs of vitamin A deficiency. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use E50.5 when the record clearly states vitamin A deficiency with night blindness, nyctalopia, or equivalent wording. It may apply when the clinician links impaired dark adaptation to deficiency. If the chart only notes suspected deficiency, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for night blindness from another cause, such as a separate eye disorder or non-nutritional condition. Do not assign it when vitamin A deficiency is not documented.
Coding tip
Confirm both the deficiency and the night blindness are documented together before reporting E50.5.