ICD-10 Code H16.132 – Photokeratitis, left eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H16.132 – Photokeratitis, left eye
What it is
Photokeratitis is an acute corneal injury caused by ultraviolet light exposure in the left eye. Use this code when documentation identifies the affected eye as the left eye.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include eye pain, redness, tearing, light sensitivity, and a gritty or foreign-body sensation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H16.132 when the provider documents photokeratitis affecting only the left eye, such as after sunlamp, welding arc, or snow reflection exposure. Code the laterality exactly as recorded. If the note does not specify the eye, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific keratitis, corneal abrasion, or eye irritation without documented photokeratitis. Check documentation if the record does not clearly identify ultraviolet injury.
Coding tip
Verify laterality in the assessment or final diagnosis before coding, because H16.132 is specific to the left eye.