ICD-10 Code H26.019 – Infantile and juvenile cortical, lamellar, or zonular cataract, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H26.019 – Infantile and juvenile cortical, lamellar, or zonular cataract, unspecified eye
What it is
This code identifies a cataract present in childhood, affecting the lens cortex, lamellae, or zonules, when the affected eye is not specified. It is used for congenital or early-onset lens opacity documented as infantile or juvenile.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include decreased visual acuity, abnormal red reflex, or lens opacity noted on eye examination, but laterality may be unspecified in the record.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents an infantile or juvenile cortical, lamellar, or zonular cataract and does not identify the right or left eye. It also fits when the chart confirms this cataract type but laterality is unavailable or not recorded. Check documentation if the note mentions another cataract subtype.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for age-related cataracts or other specified cataract types without infantile or juvenile documentation. If the record identifies the eye, choose the laterality-specific code instead.
Coding tip
Verify both the cataract type and laterality in the ophthalmology note before assigning H26.019.