ICD-10 Code H34.12 – Central retinal artery occlusion, left eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H34.12 – Central retinal artery occlusion, left eye
What it is
H34.12 identifies central retinal artery occlusion affecting the left eye. It means blood flow through the main retinal artery is blocked, causing sudden loss of vision in that eye.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden, painless monocular vision loss and a relative afferent pupillary defect. Funduscopic changes may show retinal whitening and a cherry-red spot; clinical features vary, refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H34.12 when the record clearly documents central retinal artery occlusion in the left eye. This code fits confirmed diagnoses, emergency evaluations, or specialist assessments naming the left eye specifically. If laterality is not stated, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for retinal vein occlusion, transient visual loss without confirmed arterial occlusion, or unspecified-eye cases. If the note describes another retinal vascular disorder, choose the documented condition instead.
Coding tip
Verify that the provider names both central retinal artery occlusion and the left eye before assigning H34.12.