ICD-10 Code H53.423 – Scotoma of blind spot area, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H53.423 – Scotoma of blind spot area, bilateral
What it is
H53.423 identifies a bilateral scotoma located in the blind spot area. It means the patient has a localized visual field defect affecting both eyes, not a complete loss of vision.
Clinical signs
Patients may report missing spots in their side vision or difficulty noticing objects in the affected field. Visual field testing typically shows a localized defect consistent with blind spot involvement; clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record specifically documents a scotoma in the blind spot area of both eyes. You may also use it when formal visual field testing confirms the bilateral defect and the provider links the finding to that diagnosis.
Do not infer laterality from a unilateral finding or from nonspecific blurred vision. If the note only says “visual field defect” or “scotoma” without location, check documentation before assigning H53.423.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unilateral blind spot scotoma, generalized vision loss, or other visual field defects without bilateral blind spot involvement. Check documentation if the site or laterality is unclear.
Coding tip
Verify both the blind spot location and bilateral laterality in the provider note or test report before coding H53.423.