ICD-10 Code H16.42 – Pannus (corneal) (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H16.42 – Pannus (corneal)
What it is
Corneal pannus is an abnormal superficial growth of blood vessels and fibrous tissue over the cornea. It usually reflects chronic irritation or inflammation affecting the eye surface.
Clinical signs
Find corneal vascularization extending from the limbus onto the cornea, often with haze or scarring. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H16.42 when the provider documents corneal pannus or pannus of the cornea as the diagnosis. It is appropriate when the record identifies this corneal overgrowth as the condition being evaluated or treated. Check documentation if the note only describes nonspecific corneal inflammation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for conjunctival pannus, general keratitis, or unspecified corneal opacity without pannus documented. Check documentation when the location or diagnosis is unclear.
Coding tip
Confirm that the word “corneal” is documented, because pannus in another eye structure is not coded H16.42.