ICD-10 Code H44.513 – Absolute glaucoma, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H44.513 – Absolute glaucoma, bilateral
What it is
H44.513 identifies absolute glaucoma affecting both eyes. This means the eyes have reached a severe, end-stage state with no useful vision left. Use the code when documentation clearly states bilateral absolute glaucoma.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Standard references describe an eye that is blind from advanced glaucoma, often with marked optic nerve damage and very poor or absent light perception.
When to use this code
Use H44.513 when the provider documents absolute glaucoma in both eyes, or equivalent wording such as end-stage glaucoma with no useful vision bilaterally. It may appear in ophthalmology notes, problem lists, or discharge summaries. Check documentation if laterality is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for glaucoma that is suspected, early, controlled, or unilateral. If the record does not state bilateral absolute glaucoma, check documentation before assigning H44.513.
Coding tip
Confirm both the diagnosis term and laterality; “absolute glaucoma” alone is not enough for H44.513 unless bilateral involvement is documented.