Other secondary cataract, bilateral

This code signifies the presence of a secondary cataract affecting both eyes, where the underlying cause is not specified as traumatic, drug-induced, or due to ocular surgery. A secondary cataract develops after the original lens has been removed or after other eye conditions or treatments.

Apply this code when documentation indicates a bilateral secondary cataract without a more specific etiology (e.g., trauma, medication, or post-operative status). This is appropriate when the physician notes "other secondary cataract, bilateral" or similar phrasing where the specific cause is unknown or not further elaborated.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "bilateral" to support this code; otherwise, laterality-specific codes (H26.491, H26.492) or unspecified (H26.499) may be more appropriate.
• Distinguish from post-operative posterior capsular opacification (PCO) (H26.3-) which is a specific type of secondary cataract following cataract extraction.
• Always code the underlying cause of the secondary cataract if known and documented (e.g., diabetes, uveitis) in addition to this code.