Infantile and juvenile nuclear cataract, unspecified eye

This code identifies a cataract affecting the central nucleus of the lens, occurring in infancy or childhood. This condition leads to opacification of the lens core, impairing vision in young patients.

Use this code when documentation specifies a nuclear cataract diagnosed in an infant or juvenile patient, and the affected eye is not specified. This diagnosis is typically supported by an ophthalmological examination detailing the location and age of onset of the cataract.

• Ensure documentation clearly states the cataract is "nuclear" and occurred during "infancy" or "juvenile" period.
• Avoid using this code if the laterality (right or left eye) is documented; instead, use the more specific H26.031 or H26.032.
• Do not confuse with congenital cataracts (Q12.0), which are present at birth, unless the documentation explicitly states it's a congenital nuclear cataract.