ICD-10 Code H36.82 – Proliferative sickle-cell retinopathy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H36.82 – Proliferative sickle-cell retinopathy
What it is
Use this code for proliferative retinal disease caused by sickle-cell disease. It refers to abnormal new blood vessel growth in the retina related to sickling-related ischemia.
Clinical signs
Findings may include peripheral retinal neovascularization, vitreous hemorrhage, and tractional retinal changes. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H36.82 when the record clearly documents proliferative sickle-cell retinopathy or sickle-cell–related retinal neovascularization. It is appropriate for ophthalmology assessments, problem lists, and encounters focused on retinal complications of sickle-cell disease. If the note only says sickle-cell disease without eye involvement, do not assign it.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonproliferative sickle-cell retinopathy or other retinal disorders unrelated to sickle-cell disease. Check documentation if the eye finding is unspecified.
Coding tip
Code the retinal complication only when the provider links it to sickle-cell disease in the documentation.