ICD-10 Code H35.169 – Retinopathy of Prematurity, Stage 5, Unspecified Eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H35.169 – Retinopathy of prematurity, stage 5, unspecified eye
What it is
H35.169 identifies stage 5 retinopathy of prematurity when the affected eye is not specified. This stage means the disease has progressed to total retinal detachment in a premature infant.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Standard references describe severe ROP with retinal detachment, often confirmed on ophthalmic examination in a premature infant.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents stage 5 retinopathy of prematurity and does not identify left, right, or both eyes. It is appropriate for ophthalmology notes, discharge summaries, or problem lists that clearly state stage 5 ROP. If laterality is documented, choose the more specific code.
Do not use for
Do not use it for earlier ROP stages, unspecified retinopathy without prematurity, or retinal detachment from another cause. Check documentation if the eye laterality or stage is unclear.
Coding tip
Verify both the stage and the eye laterality before coding, because H35.169 is only for stage 5 ROP with unspecified eye.