Vertical heterophoria

This code describes a type of strabismus where there is a vertical misalignment of the eyes that is not always manifest, meaning it's a latent deviation. The eyes tend to drift vertically, but the patient can typically maintain fusion and avoid diplopia through compensatory mechanisms.

Use this code when documentation indicates a vertical phoria, such as a hyperphoria or hypophoria, without a constant manifest deviation. This diagnosis is often made during an ophthalmic examination when fusion is disrupted, revealing the latent vertical misalignment.

• Differentiate from manifest vertical strabismus (e.g., H50.2x, H50.3x) where the deviation is constant.
• Ensure documentation specifies "phoria" or "latent deviation" rather than "tropia" or "manifest deviation."
• Laterality (right, left, bilateral) is not specified for this code; it applies to any vertical heterophoria.