ICD-10 Code H44.021 – Vitreous abscess (chronic), right eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H44.021 – Vitreous abscess (chronic), right eye
What it is
This code identifies a chronic abscess in the vitreous body of the right eye. Use it when documentation specifies a persistent localized infection or suppurative process within the vitreous.
Clinical signs
Findings may include decreased vision, ocular inflammation, and vitreous opacities on exam. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for confirmation of chronic right-eye involvement.
When to use this code
Use H44.021 when the record clearly states a chronic vitreous abscess in the right eye. It may appear in ophthalmology notes, consultation reports, or problem lists describing a longstanding intraocular infection. If laterality or chronicity is not documented, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute vitreous infection, nonspecific endophthalmitis, or conditions affecting the left eye or both eyes. Check documentation if the note only describes vitreous haze or inflammation without an abscess.
Coding tip
Confirm both chronicity and right-eye laterality in the source note before assigning H44.021.