ICD-10 Code H36.81 – Nonproliferative sickle-cell retinopathy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H36.81 – Nonproliferative sickle-cell retinopathy
What it is
H36.81 identifies retinal changes associated with sickle-cell disease that have not progressed to proliferative retinopathy. Use it when the record documents nonproliferative sickle-cell retinal involvement.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Findings may include retinal vascular changes or other nonproliferative abnormalities noted on eye examination in a patient with sickle-cell disease.
When to use this code
Use this code when the ophthalmology or medical record specifically states nonproliferative sickle-cell retinopathy. It is appropriate for confirmed retinal involvement without documentation of neovascularization or proliferative disease. If the note is unclear, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for proliferative sickle-cell retinopathy or for nonspecific sickle-cell disease without retinal findings. If the chart only mentions eye symptoms or screening, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code from the provider’s documented retinal diagnosis, not from sickle-cell disease alone.