H26 refers to Other cataract, a group of lens-related eye disorders that impair vision due to clouding or other abnormalities of the lens. These may develop with age, from trauma, systemic diseases, or congenital defects, and are a leading cause of reversible blindness worldwide.

Symptoms

Blurry or foggy vision – A primary sign of cataracts (H25, H26)
Difficulty with night vision – Often the earliest complaint
Increased light sensitivity – Especially in posterior subcapsular cataracts
Halos around lights – Common symptom of mature or dense cataracts
Fading or yellowing of colors – Caused by lens opacity
Double vision in one eye – Possible in lens dislocation or partial opacity (H27)
Cataracts secondary to systemic disease – Seen in H28 (e.g., diabetes, galactosemia)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Other cataract involves visual acuity testing, slit-lamp examination, dilated fundus exam, and in some cases, ocular ultrasound (for mature cataracts). Systemic workup may be required in cases linked to metabolic or genetic conditions.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code H26 is used by ophthalmologists, optometrists, and general practitioners. It is essential for surgical planning (e.g., phacoemulsification), documentation of visual disability, insurance claims, and monitoring systemic disease impacts on eye health.

Related Codes

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code H26?
A: It represents Other cataract, a category of lens disorders that impair vision through opacity or structural changes.

Q2: Are all cataracts age-related?
A: No—H26 covers congenital, traumatic, and secondary cataracts; H28 codes those linked to systemic diseases.

Q3: Can cataracts be prevented?
A: Risk can be reduced with UV protection, blood sugar control, and avoiding steroid overuse, but age-related forms (H25) are common.

Q4: What is the treatment?
A: Surgical removal of the lens with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation remains the definitive treatment.

Q5: Who manages these conditions?
A: Ophthalmologists for diagnosis and surgery, optometrists for monitoring, and PCPs for managing systemic contributors.

Conclusion

ICD10 code H26 ensures accurate documentation of Other cataract, guiding timely surgical referral, monitoring vision loss, and identifying underlying systemic or hereditary contributors to lens opacity.