ICD-10 Code H21.243 – Degeneration of pupillary margin, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H21.243 – Degeneration of pupillary margin, bilateral
What it is
H21.243 identifies degenerative change at the pupillary margin in both eyes. Use it when the record documents bilateral degeneration of the iris edge around the pupil.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Findings may include visible iris margin changes noted on eye examination, often recorded by an ophthalmologist or optometrist.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider specifically documents degeneration of the pupillary margin in both eyes. It may appear in assessment notes, consultation reports, or problem lists when the bilateral condition is confirmed.
Code it only when the documentation supports a bilateral finding, not a unilateral or unspecified iris disorder. Check documentation if the note describes another anterior segment abnormality instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unilateral pupillary margin degeneration or for general iris disease without bilateral specificity. Do not assign it when the record is unclear; check documentation.
Coding tip
Match the laterality exactly as documented, because H21.243 is bilateral-specific.