ICD-10 Code H50.5 – Heterophoria (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H50.5 – Heterophoria
What it is
Heterophoria is a latent tendency for the eyes to drift out of alignment when binocular fusion is interrupted. The deviation is usually controlled during normal viewing and may only appear on cover testing.
Clinical signs
Patients may have eye strain, intermittent blur, or headaches, especially with prolonged near work. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation and exam findings such as a phoria noted on cover-uncover or alternate cover testing.
When to use this code
Use H50.5 when the provider documents heterophoria, phoria, or latent ocular misalignment as the diagnosis. It is appropriate when the record identifies the condition by exam or specialist assessment. Check documentation if the note only mentions nonspecific visual discomfort.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for manifest strabismus or other clearly visible eye misalignment. If the chart does not confirm heterophoria, use the documented condition or check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the documented type of ocular misalignment precisely, and do not infer heterophoria from symptoms alone.