ICD-10 Code H40.83 – Aqueous misdirection (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H40.83 – Aqueous misdirection
What it is
Aqueous misdirection is a rare glaucoma-related condition where fluid is redirected backward in the eye, causing shallow or flat anterior chamber and increased pressure. You use this code for the documented diagnosis itself.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a shallow anterior chamber, elevated intraocular pressure, and worsening vision or eye pain. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H40.83 when the clinician documents aqueous misdirection, malignant glaucoma, or ciliary block glaucoma as the active diagnosis. It may appear after eye surgery or in patients with unexplained shallowing of the anterior chamber; check documentation for the exact terminology.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for routine postoperative pain, simple angle-closure glaucoma, or other glaucoma types without documented aqueous misdirection. Check documentation if the record is unclear.
Coding tip
Code only when the provider clearly names aqueous misdirection or an accepted synonym in the assessment.