ICD-10 Code H16.129 – Filamentary keratitis, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H16.129 – Filamentary keratitis, unspecified eye
What it is
Filamentary keratitis is a corneal surface disorder with strands of mucus and epithelial debris attached to the cornea. The unspecified eye code is used when documentation does not identify right or left eye.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include eye pain, foreign-body sensation, tearing, redness, and light sensitivity. Slit-lamp examination may show corneal filaments; if details are unclear, clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H16.129 when the provider documents filamentary keratitis and does not specify which eye is affected. It also fits when the chart confirms corneal filaments or filamentary keratitis without laterality. Do not infer the eye from context unless the record clearly supports it.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for generic dry eye, corneal abrasion, or other keratitis types unless filamentary keratitis is specifically documented. Check documentation when the eye laterality is stated.
Coding tip
Verify laterality in the note first; if absent, use the unspecified-eye code rather than guessing.