ICD-10 Code H04.423 – Chronic lacrimal canaliculitis of bilateral lacrimal passages (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H04.423 – Chronic lacrimal canaliculitis of bilateral lacrimal passages
What it is
This code identifies a chronic infection or inflammation of the lacrimal canaliculi in both eyes. The canaliculi are small drainage channels that carry tears from the eyelids into the lacrimal sac.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include persistent tearing, medial eyelid tenderness, discharge, and swelling near the puncta. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H04.423 when the provider documents chronic canaliculitis affecting both lacrimal passages. It is appropriate when the condition is bilateral and the record supports a chronic process rather than an acute episode. If laterality is not clearly documented, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute canaliculitis, isolated unilateral disease, or nonspecific tearing without a documented diagnosis. Do not assign it when the record only mentions lacrimal obstruction or another eyelid disorder.
Coding tip
Confirm both chronicity and bilateral involvement in the provider note before selecting H04.423.