ICD-10 Code H18.449 – Keratomalacia, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H18.449 – Keratomalacia, unspecified eye
What it is
Keratomalacia is softening and breakdown of the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. This unspecified-eye code is used when the affected eye is not documented.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include corneal clouding, ulceration, thinning, or softening, with reduced vision and ocular surface damage.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record documents keratomalacia but does not specify right, left, or bilateral eye. It may also fit when the provider confirms corneal softening without laterality detail. Check documentation if the note is incomplete or ambiguous.
Do not use for
Do not use it when the chart identifies a specific eye, because a laterality-specific code is more accurate. Do not assign it for general corneal ulcer or dry eye without documentation of keratomalacia.
Coding tip
Verify laterality in the ophthalmology note before defaulting to an unspecified-eye code.