ICD-10 Code H50.53 – Vertical heterophoria (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H50.53 – Vertical heterophoria
What it is
Vertical heterophoria is a latent vertical eye misalignment that appears when binocular vision is disrupted. It can cause the eyes to drift vertically and may be associated with visual discomfort.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include vertical ocular misalignment on cover testing, eye strain, or diplopia that improves when one eye is covered.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents vertical heterophoria as the diagnosed condition. It is appropriate for outpatient, specialty, or ophthalmology records that specifically identify a vertical phoria rather than a tropia or nonspecific visual complaint.
Code it only when the chart supports the diagnosis with exam findings or a clear assessment statement. Check documentation if the record describes only dizziness, headache, or eye strain without naming the phoria.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for vertical strabismus, vertical tropia, or unspecified ocular misalignment. It is also not for symptoms alone when the provider has not confirmed heterophoria.
Coding tip
Confirm that the documentation says “heterophoria” and not “tropia” before assigning H50.53.