ICD-10 Code H44.029 – Vitreous abscess (chronic), unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H44.029 – Vitreous abscess (chronic), unspecified eye
What it is
Use this code for a chronic abscess involving the vitreous body of the eye when the affected eye is not specified. It indicates a persistent localized infection or pus collection within the vitreous.
Clinical signs
Findings may include decreased vision, ocular pain, redness, floaters, or inflammatory signs on eye examination. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Assign H44.029 when the provider documents a chronic vitreous abscess and does not identify the right or left eye. Use it for confirmed diagnoses in outpatient, inpatient, or consult notes when the chronic nature is clear. Check documentation if the record only describes vitreous inflammation without abscess.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute vitreous infection, nonspecific vitritis, or eye conditions without documentation of an abscess. If the eye laterality is stated, use the appropriate specified code.
Coding tip
Verify both chronicity and laterality in the ophthalmology note before assigning H44.029.