ICD-10 Code H16.009 – Unspecified corneal ulcer, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H16.009 – Unspecified corneal ulcer, unspecified eye
What it is
H16.009 identifies a corneal ulcer when the affected eye is not specified and the record does not document a more precise cause or location. Use it for a corneal epithelial defect with stromal involvement, when documentation remains nonspecific.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include eye pain, redness, tearing, photophobia, and reduced vision. Exam documentation may note a corneal epithelial defect, infiltrate, or opacity; if features are unclear, check documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a corneal ulcer but does not identify the eye or provide a more specific type. It also fits when the note says “unspecified corneal ulcer” or the chart lacks enough detail for a more exact code.
If the record later specifies the right or left eye, or an underlying cause, code to the documented specificity instead. Confirm laterality and etiology before defaulting to H16.009.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for corneal abrasion, keratitis without ulceration, or a specified corneal ulcer code. If the provider documents the eye side or a cause, select the more specific code.
Coding tip
Query the clinician when laterality or ulcer cause is missing, because unspecified coding should be your last resort.