ICD-10 Code H55.02 – Latent nystagmus (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H55.02 – Latent nystagmus
What it is
H55.02 identifies latent nystagmus, a type of involuntary eye movement that appears or becomes worse when one eye is covered. It is usually associated with binocular vision disorders and should be documented as such.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include horizontal nystagmus that is triggered by occlusion of either eye and lessens when both eyes are open.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents latent nystagmus by name or clearly describes nystagmus that occurs with monocular occlusion. Code it from the ophthalmic diagnosis record, not from a vague note of eye shaking alone. If the chart does not confirm the type, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use H55.02 for other forms of nystagmus, such as congenital, vestibular, or unspecified nystagmus. If the record only says “nystagmus” without further detail, do not assume latent nystagmus.
Coding tip
Look for the word “latent” or a note that the nystagmus appears with one eye covered before assigning H55.02.