ICD-10 Code H10.23 – Serous conjunctivitis, except viral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H10.23 – Serous conjunctivitis, except viral
What it is
This code identifies serous inflammation of the conjunctiva with a watery or clear discharge, when the cause is not viral. Use it for a nonviral conjunctival process documented as serous conjunctivitis.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include red eye, tearing, and a thin serous discharge. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the documented cause and whether the presentation is acute or persistent.
When to use this code
Use H10.23 when the provider documents serous conjunctivitis and specifically excludes a viral cause. It fits outpatient or inpatient records where the note describes watery conjunctival inflammation without a viral diagnosis. If the documentation names another etiology, code that condition instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for viral conjunctivitis or for conjunctivitis documented with a different specific cause. Check documentation if the record only says “conjunctivitis” without clarifying serous or nonviral.
Coding tip
Query the provider when the chart does not clearly state “except viral,” because that wording determines whether H10.23 is appropriate.