Other corneal scars and opacities

This code represents various types of corneal scarring or opacities not specifically classified elsewhere. These are non-inflammatory, permanent alterations to the corneal tissue that can result in decreased visual acuity or cosmetic concerns. The opacities can vary in size, density, and location within the cornea.

Use this code when documentation indicates a corneal scar or opacity that is not congenital, due to a specific infection (e.g., herpetic keratitis), or post-traumatic. This code is appropriate for conditions like band keratopathy, corneal dystrophies with opacification not otherwise specified, or other idiopathic corneal scars. Documentation should clearly state the presence of a corneal scar or opacity and rule out more specific etiologies.

• Do not use this code for congenital corneal opacities; refer to codes in Q13.3.
• Always seek more specific codes if the etiology of the corneal scar or opacity is known (e.g., post-traumatic, infectious).
• Consider laterality if specified in the documentation (e.g., H17.891 for right eye, H17.892 for left eye, H17.893 for bilateral).