ICD-10 Code H26.491 – Other secondary cataract, right eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H26.491 – Other secondary cataract, right eye
What it is
H26.491 identifies a secondary cataract affecting the right eye. It means clouding or opacification has developed after a prior eye condition or procedure, rather than a primary age-related cataract.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly documented findings include reduced vision, glare, or blurred vision in the right eye, often with lens capsule or posterior segment opacification noted on exam.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a secondary cataract in the right eye and does not specify a more exact subtype. It is appropriate for postoperative or other acquired opacities that are clearly described as secondary cataract. Confirm laterality and avoid coding from suspicion alone.
Do not use for
Do not use it for primary cataracts, unspecified laterality, or cataract diagnoses without documentation of a secondary process. If the record only says “cataract” or the eye is not identified, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the laterality exactly as documented and verify that “secondary” is stated in the chart before assigning H26.491.