ICD-10 Code H47.019 – Ischemic optic neuropathy, unspecified eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H47.019 – Ischemic optic neuropathy, unspecified eye
What it is
This code identifies ischemic optic neuropathy when the affected eye is not specified. It refers to optic nerve damage caused by reduced blood flow, and you should use it only when laterality is not documented.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden or subacute vision loss, often with visual field defects and optic disc swelling on examination. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H47.019 when the provider documents ischemic optic neuropathy but does not state whether the right or left eye is involved. It also fits when the record confirms optic nerve ischemia and laterality remains unclear after review. If the note specifies an eye, choose the laterality-specific code instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for optic neuritis, other optic nerve disorders, or when the condition is documented as a different cause of vision loss. Check documentation if laterality or diagnosis type is unclear.
Coding tip
Verify whether the record names the right or left eye before assigning this unspecified code.