Peripheral opacity of cornea, unspecified eye

This code signifies a non-specific clouding or haziness located at the outer edges of the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye. This opacity is not further characterized by its specific type or cause, and the affected eye is not specified.

Use this code when documentation indicates a peripheral corneal opacity without further detail regarding its nature (e.g., arcus senilis, band keratopathy, or scar) and when the laterality (right or left eye) is not documented. This code is appropriate when the physician notes "peripheral corneal opacity, unspecified eye" or similar without additional clarifying information.

• Avoid using this code if the specific type of peripheral corneal opacity is known (e.g., H17.0- for adherent leukoma, H17.1- for other central corneal opacity).
• Always strive for greater specificity regarding laterality (H17.821 for right eye, H17.822 for left eye) if documented.
• Do not use this code for central corneal opacities; refer to codes within H17.1- or H17.3-.