ICD-10 Code H44.012 – Panophthalmitis (acute), left eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H44.012 – Panophthalmitis (acute), left eye
What it is
H44.012 identifies acute panophthalmitis in the left eye. This means severe, widespread inflammation involving the entire eye, usually treated as an urgent diagnosis.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include marked ocular pain, redness, swelling, and decreased vision. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for confirmation of acute involvement and left-eye laterality.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents acute panophthalmitis affecting the left eye. It may also apply when the note clearly states severe panophthalmitis or panophthalmitis with left-eye laterality.
Do not infer laterality from context alone. If the record does not specify the eye or the acute nature, check documentation before assigning H44.012.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific eye inflammation, endophthalmitis, or chronic disease unless panophthalmitis is explicitly documented. Check documentation if the diagnosis is uncertain.
Coding tip
Verify both acuity and left-eye laterality in the provider note before coding H44.012.