ICD-10 Code H49.41 – Progressive external ophthalmoplegia, right eye (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H49.41 – Progressive external ophthalmoplegia, right eye
What it is
H49.41 identifies progressive external ophthalmoplegia affecting the right eye. It refers to a gradual weakness of the external eye muscles that limits eye movement and may cause eyelid droop.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include slowly worsening limitation of ocular motility and ptosis on the right side. Diplopia may occur, but clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record specifically documents progressive external ophthalmoplegia in the right eye. It is appropriate when laterality is clear and the condition is described as progressive rather than acute or unspecified.
Code from the ophthalmology or neurology note, imaging, or specialist assessment if it confirms the diagnosis. Check documentation if the chart only mentions ptosis, diplopia, or generalized ophthalmoplegia without right-eye specificity.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unspecified ophthalmoplegia, left eye, or bilateral disease. Also avoid it when the note only describes a symptom such as drooping eyelid without a documented diagnosis.
Coding tip
Verify laterality in the assessment, because H49.41 is specific to the right eye.