Localized vascularization of cornea, unspecified eye

This code signifies the presence of new blood vessel growth within a localized area of the cornea, without specifying which eye is affected. This vascularization can impair corneal transparency and vision, often occurring as a response to injury, inflammation, or infection.

Apply this code when documentation indicates localized corneal neovascularization without laterality specified. This often arises from conditions like chronic keratitis, contact lens overwear, or corneal trauma. Supporting documentation should clearly state "localized corneal vascularization" or "corneal neovascularization, localized" without specifying left or right eye.

• Do not use this code if the laterality (left or right eye) is documented; instead, choose the more specific H16.431 (right eye) or H16.432 (left eye).
• Always code the underlying cause of the corneal vascularization if known and documented, such as keratitis (e.g., H16.0xx, H16.1xx) or corneal ulcer (e.g., H16.0xx).
• Distinguish from diffuse corneal vascularization (H16.42x) or ghost vessels (H16.44x), which represent different patterns of vascular involvement.