What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Cataract?
A cataract is the clouding of the eye's natural lens, resulting in blurred vision and visual impairment. It is one of the most common eye conditions affecting older people. The International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10) provides a coding system to classify and document various medical conditions, including cataracts. Here are some commonly used ICD-10 codes for cataracts, along with their clinical descriptions:
H25.0 - Age-related nuclear cataract:
This code describes cataracts that primarily affect the central part of the lens (nucleus) due to aging. It is characterized by gradual vision loss, decreased contrast sensitivity, and increased difficulty with night vision.
H25.1 - Age-related cortical cataract:
This code is used to indicate cataracts that affect the outer layer (cortex) of the lens. Age-related cortical cataracts typically cause glare, reading difficulty, and vision problems in bright light.
H25.9 - Unspecified age-related cataract:
This code is used when the specific type of age-related cataract is not mentioned. It covers cases where the documentation does not provide enough information to assign a more specific code.
H26.9 - Unspecified cataract:
This code is used when the type of cataract is not specified, but it is known that a cataract is present. It may be used when the medical record lacks sufficient information to assign a more specific code.
H26.0 - Infantile and juvenile cataract:
This code is used to describe cataracts that occur in infants or children. It includes both congenital cataracts (present at birth) and those that develop during childhood. Infantile and juvenile cataracts can cause severe visual impairment if left untreated.
H26.1 - Traumatic cataract:
This code is used to indicate cataracts that develop as a result of trauma or injury to the eye. Traumatic cataracts can occur immediately after the injury or develop gradually. They require prompt medical attention and may require surgical intervention.
H26.2 - Complicated cataract:
This code is used to describe cataracts that are associated with other ocular conditions or complications. It includes cataracts occurring in the presence of conditions such as glaucoma, uveitis, or retinal disorders.
H26.3 - Drug-induced cataract:
This code is used when certain medications, such as corticosteroids, or the long-term use of specific drugs cause a cataract. Drug-induced cataracts can develop gradually and may be reversible if the medication is discontinued.
H26.8 - Other specified cataract:
This code is used for cataracts that do not fall under any specific category mentioned above but have additional specificity documented in the medical record. It covers less common types or presentations of cataracts.
H28.9 - Cataract, unspecified:
This code is used when the medical record mentions cataracts without providing any further details or specific information regarding the type or cause.

