ICD-10 Code H50.40 – Unspecified heterotropia (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H50.40 – Unspecified heterotropia
What it is
H50.40 identifies a misalignment of the eyes, also called heterotropia, when the type is not further specified. Use it when the record confirms strabismus but does not describe the direction or pattern.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include visible eye deviation, poor eye alignment, or intermittent or constant crossing or drifting of one eye.
When to use this code
Use this code when the clinician documents heterotropia without naming esotropia, exotropia, hypertropia, or another subtype. It also fits when the note only states “strabismus” and no more detail is available. Check documentation if laterality or a specific pattern is recorded.
Do not use for
Do not use H50.40 if the provider identifies a specific strabismus type or a paralytic, restrictive, or other defined cause. Also avoid it when the documentation refers only to heterophoria or normal ocular alignment.
Coding tip
Assign the most specific strabismus code available; use H50.40 only when the record lacks a clearer subtype.