ICD-10 Code H04.9 – Disorder of lacrimal system, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H04.9 – Disorder of lacrimal system, unspecified
What it is
H04.9 identifies a disorder of the lacrimal system when the specific condition is not documented. Use it for problems involving tear production, drainage, or the lacrimal apparatus when the chart gives no further detail.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, records may note tearing, eye irritation, or blockage of tear drainage, but you should not assume a specific diagnosis without provider support.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a lacrimal system disorder but does not specify whether it is obstruction, inflammation, or another condition. It also fits when the record is limited to a general tear-duct or lacrimal complaint and no clearer diagnosis is available.
If laterality or a more exact disorder is documented, code that specific condition instead. Check documentation carefully before selecting this unspecified code.
Do not use for
Do not use H04.9 when the chart identifies a specific lacrimal disorder, such as obstruction or inflammation. Do not assign it for nonspecific eye symptoms without documentation of a lacrimal system problem.
Coding tip
Choose H04.9 only after reviewing the note for a more specific lacrimal diagnosis, because unspecified codes should be a last resort.