ICD-10 Code H16.14 – Punctate keratitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H16.14 – Punctate keratitis
What it is
Punctate keratitis is inflammation or injury of the corneal surface marked by small punctate lesions. Use this code when documentation specifically identifies punctate keratitis.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include foreign body sensation, irritation, tearing, redness, photophobia, and corneal staining with tiny epithelial defects. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Assign H16.14 when the provider documents punctate keratitis as the diagnosis, including punctate epithelial keratitis or similar wording. Use it for eye encounters where the corneal surface condition is the reason for evaluation. Check documentation if the note only describes nonspecific keratitis.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unrelated corneal ulcers, conjunctivitis, or general eye irritation without documented punctate keratitis. If the record is unclear, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the most specific corneal diagnosis documented and avoid substituting H16.14 for general keratitis terms.