ICD-10 Code H16.249 – Ophthalmia nodosa, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H16.249 – Ophthalmia nodosa, unspecified eye
What it is
H16.249 identifies ophthalmia nodosa affecting an unspecified eye. Use it when the record documents this eye condition but does not specify right or left eye.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Standard references describe ocular irritation after exposure to foreign material, with redness, tearing, pain, photophobia, or a sensation of a foreign body.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider clearly diagnoses ophthalmia nodosa and the affected eye is not identified. It is also appropriate when laterality is unavailable in the encounter note. If the chart names a specific eye, code the laterality instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific eye irritation, conjunctivitis, or corneal injury without a documented diagnosis of ophthalmia nodosa. Check documentation if the note only mentions exposure or suspected foreign body reaction.
Coding tip
Confirm that ophthalmia nodosa is explicitly documented and that laterality is truly unspecified before assigning H16.249.