ICD-10 Code H44.009 – Unspecified purulent endophthalmitis, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H44.009 – Unspecified purulent endophthalmitis, unspecified eye
What it is
This code identifies a purulent infection inside the eye when the affected eye is not specified. It is used when documentation confirms endophthalmitis but does not name the laterality.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include severe eye pain, redness, decreased vision, and intraocular inflammation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the affected eye and whether the infection is purulent.
When to use this code
Use H44.009 when the record states purulent endophthalmitis and does not identify right, left, or unspecified laterality beyond the diagnosis itself. It also fits when the clinician documents postoperative or infectious endophthalmitis without naming the eye. Check documentation if the note is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonpurulent endophthalmitis or for inflammation limited to the conjunctiva, cornea, or sclera. If a specific eye is documented, choose the laterality-specific code instead.
Coding tip
Confirm both the purulent nature and the unspecified eye before assigning H44.009.