ICD-10 Code H18.733 – Descemetocele, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H18.733 – Descemetocele, bilateral
What it is
Descemetocele is a severe corneal thinning condition where only Descemet membrane remains over the affected area. Bilateral means it is present in both eyes.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include marked corneal thinning, a descemetocele on slit-lamp exam, and high risk of corneal perforation.
When to use this code
Use H18.733 when the provider documents bilateral descemetocele or equivalent wording for both eyes. Code it when the diagnosis is confirmed on ophthalmic examination, even if the note also describes severe corneal thinning or impending perforation.
Do not assume bilateral involvement from a single-eye finding. If the record is unclear, check documentation before assigning the code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unilateral descemetocele or for general corneal ulceration without descemetocele. Check documentation if the record only mentions thinning, perforation, or another corneal disorder.
Coding tip
Verify that both eyes are documented, because laterality drives code selection for this diagnosis.