ICD-10 Code H47.20 – Unspecified Optic Atrophy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H47.20 – Unspecified optic atrophy
What it is
H47.20 identifies optic atrophy when the chart does not specify the cause or type. It means loss or degeneration of the optic nerve is documented, but details are incomplete.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include decreased visual acuity, reduced color vision, and optic disc pallor on eye examination.
When to use this code
Use H47.20 when the provider documents optic atrophy without naming a more specific form, such as primary or secondary optic atrophy. It also fits when the record confirms optic nerve atrophy but does not identify an underlying cause. If laterality or etiology is documented, check for a more specific code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for optic neuritis, glaucoma, or other optic nerve disorders with a different documented diagnosis. If the record specifies a cause or subtype, code that condition instead.
Coding tip
Query the provider when the note says only “optic atrophy” and laterality, cause, or type is unclear.