Unspecified heterophoria

This code signifies an unstated type of latent strabismus, where the eyes have a tendency to deviate but are kept in alignment by fusion. It indicates a muscular imbalance of the eyes that is not overtly manifest unless fusion is disrupted.

Use this code when documentation indicates a heterophoria but does not specify the direction of the deviation (e.g., esophoria, exophoria, hyperphoria). This is appropriate when the provider has diagnosed a latent deviation but the specific type is unknown or not documented.

• Avoid using this code if the specific type of heterophoria (e.g., esophoria, exophoria) is documented; instead, use the more specific code.
• Ensure the medical record clearly states "heterophoria" without further specification of the deviation type.
• Do not confuse with manifest strabismus (heterotropia), where the eye deviation is constant and visible.