ICD-10 Code H44.319 – Chalcosis, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H44.319 – Chalcosis, unspecified eye
What it is
H44.319 identifies chalcosis affecting an eye when the documentation does not specify which eye. Chalcosis is deposition of copper-containing material in the eye, usually after a retained intraocular foreign body.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Findings may include visible intraocular foreign body, ocular discoloration, inflammation, or reduced vision, but the record must support chalcosis rather than another metallic foreign body reaction.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents chalcosis and does not identify the affected eye. It is appropriate for encounter notes, problem lists, or claims describing copper deposition in the eye with unspecified laterality. Check documentation if the note only mentions a foreign body without chalcosis.
Do not use for
Do not use it for chalcosis with a specified eye, because laterality needs a different code. Do not assign it when the record describes a different ocular foreign body reaction or the diagnosis is not clearly documented.
Coding tip
Verify laterality first; if the affected eye is stated, code that specific option instead of the unspecified-eye code.