Endothelial corneal dystrophy, bilateral

This code signifies a genetic corneal disorder affecting both eyes, characterized by dysfunction and loss of endothelial cells. This leads to corneal edema and opacification, progressively impairing vision. The most common form is Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states bilateral endothelial corneal dystrophy, such as Fuchs' dystrophy, affecting both the right and left eyes. This diagnosis is typically made via slit lamp examination revealing guttae and corneal edema.

• Ensure documentation specifies "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, use the appropriate unilateral code (H18.511 or H18.512).
• Do not confuse with other corneal dystrophies affecting different layers of the cornea (e.g., stromal dystrophies).
• Code any associated complications, such as bullous keratopathy (H18.1x), separately if documented.