ICD-10 Code H34.1 – Central retinal artery occlusion (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H34.1 – Central retinal artery occlusion
What it is
H34.1 identifies central retinal artery occlusion, a sudden blockage of the main artery supplying the retina. It is an ophthalmic emergency and can cause abrupt, severe vision loss in one eye.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden painless monocular vision loss, a relative afferent pupillary defect, and retinal pallor with a cherry-red spot on examination. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H34.1 when the provider documents central retinal artery occlusion or a confirmed equivalent diagnosis. Apply it for acute retinal ischemia affecting the central retinal artery, whether diagnosed in the emergency setting, ophthalmology, or inpatient care.
Do not use it for nonspecific visual loss without a documented vascular occlusion. If the note only says retinal artery occlusion without specifying the central artery, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use H34.1 for branch retinal artery occlusion, transient visual symptoms without confirmed occlusion, or retinal vein occlusion. Check documentation when the record is unclear.
Coding tip
Code H34.1 only when the chart clearly names central retinal artery occlusion; otherwise, query for specificity.