Cataract secondary to ocular disorders, left eye

This code signifies a cataract that has developed in the left eye as a direct consequence of another pre-existing ocular condition, such as a degenerative eye disease (e.g., retinitis pigmentosa, high myopia) or an inflammatory process (e.g., uveitis, chronic iritis). It indicates that the cataract is not age-related or congenital, but rather a secondary complication.

Apply this code when documentation clearly links the cataract in the left eye to an underlying degenerative or inflammatory eye disorder. The patient's medical record should specify the primary ocular condition causing the cataract. This code is appropriate for cases where the cataract is a sequela of a previously diagnosed and treated or ongoing eye disease.

• Always sequence the underlying degenerative or inflammatory ocular disorder first, as it is the etiology of the cataract.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "left eye" and explicitly states the secondary nature of the cataract due to a degenerative or inflammatory cause.
• Do not confuse with age-related cataracts (H25.-) or cataracts due to trauma (H26.1-).