ICD-10 Code H35.053 – Retinal Neovascularization, Unspecified, Bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H35.053 – Retinal neovascularization, unspecified, bilateral
What it is
This code identifies abnormal new blood vessel growth in both retinas, without a more specific underlying cause being documented. It is used when the record states bilateral retinal neovascularization but does not specify the exact disorder.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, retinal neovascularization is confirmed on ophthalmic examination or retinal imaging and may be associated with fragile, abnormal vessels in both eyes.
When to use this code
Use H35.053 when the clinician documents bilateral retinal neovascularization and no more specific retinal disease code is available or recorded. It may appear in notes describing proliferative retinal changes, especially when the diagnosis is stated as unspecified. Check documentation if the underlying condition is known.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if the record identifies a more specific cause of neovascularization, such as proliferative diabetic retinopathy or another defined retinal disorder. Do not assign it for unilateral disease or for suspected findings only.
Coding tip
Verify laterality and the documented underlying diagnosis before coding; a more specific retinal code may be required.