ICD-10 Code H44.003 – Unspecified purulent endophthalmitis, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H44.003 – Unspecified purulent endophthalmitis, bilateral
What it is
This code identifies a purulent infection inside both eyes, with pus or severe intraocular inflammation. Use it when the record says bilateral endophthalmitis but does not specify the organism or cause.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include eye pain, redness, decreased vision, and marked intraocular inflammation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality and whether the infection is purulent.
When to use this code
Use H44.003 when the provider documents unspecified purulent endophthalmitis affecting both eyes and no more specific code is available. It also fits when the note confirms bilateral infection but does not identify the underlying pathogen or source. Check documentation if the condition is postoperative, traumatic, or otherwise specified.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonpurulent endophthalmitis, unilateral disease, or cases with a documented organism or cause that supports a more specific code. Do not assign it when documentation is unclear; check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm both laterality and the word “purulent” in the provider note before selecting H44.003.