ICD-10 Code H26.052 – Posterior subcapsular polar infantile and juvenile cataract, left eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H26.052 – Posterior subcapsular polar infantile and juvenile cataract, left eye
What it is
This code identifies a posterior subcapsular polar cataract affecting the left eye in an infant or child. It describes a lens opacity in the posterior subcapsular polar area, not a general cataract diagnosis.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include decreased visual clarity, reduced red reflex, or amblyopia risk when the cataract is visually significant.
When to use this code
Use H26.052 when the provider documents a posterior subcapsular polar infantile or juvenile cataract specifically in the left eye. Apply it for congenital or early-life cataracts limited to that eye, including ophthalmology assessments and surgical planning notes.
Do not substitute a nonspecific cataract code when laterality and cataract type are documented. If the record does not clearly identify the left eye or the exact subtype, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for age-related cataracts, traumatic cataracts, or cataracts in another eye. If the chart only says “cataract” without subtype or laterality, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm both the cataract subtype and the left-eye laterality before assigning H26.052.