ICD-10 Code H55.81 – Deficient saccadic eye movements (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H55.81 – Deficient saccadic eye movements
What it is
H55.81 identifies deficient saccadic eye movements, meaning the eyes do not make normal quick shifts from one point to another. Use it when documentation describes impaired saccades rather than a broader eye movement disorder.
Clinical signs
Findings may include slow, inaccurate, or absent saccades on examination. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the specific type of eye movement abnormality noted.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents deficient saccadic eye movements, saccadic dysfunction, or a similar diagnosis. It may appear in neurologic or ophthalmic evaluations when abnormal rapid gaze shifts are the primary recorded finding. Check documentation if the note is nonspecific.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for general blurred vision, nystagmus, or unspecified eye movement problems unless the record specifically identifies deficient saccades. If the diagnosis is broader or different, choose the more accurate documented condition.
Coding tip
Code H55.81 only when the clinician clearly documents deficient saccadic eye movements; otherwise, query or use a more specific documented diagnosis.