ICD-10 Code H16.041 – Marginal corneal ulcer, right eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H16.041 – Marginal corneal ulcer, right eye
What it is
H16.041 identifies a marginal corneal ulcer affecting the right eye. It describes a localized ulcer at the corneal edge, usually documented as a right-eye corneal lesion.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a peripheral corneal ulcer with pain, redness, tearing, and light sensitivity. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a marginal corneal ulcer in the right eye. It is appropriate when the record clearly states the laterality and the diagnosis, even if the note also mentions corneal inflammation or irritation.
If the documentation only says “corneal ulcer” without location or eye, check documentation before coding. Confirm that the ulcer is marginal and not a different corneal disorder.
Do not use for
Do not use H16.041 for ulcers of the left eye, bilateral disease, or unspecified eye. Do not use it when the record describes a corneal abrasion or another non-ulcer corneal lesion.
Coding tip
Verify both the ulcer type and laterality in the provider note before assigning H16.041.