H54 refers to Blindness and low vision, encompassing a range of visual problems that may impact clarity, field of view, or functional sight. These may arise from ocular disease, neurological conditions, or trauma, and require accurate assessment for appropriate vision care or disability services.

Symptoms

Blurry or distorted vision – Common in both visual disturbances (H53) and early low vision (H54)
Flashes or floaters – Often reported in retinal-related visual disturbances
Night blindness – Indicative of retinal dystrophies or vitamin A deficiency
Loss of peripheral vision – Seen in glaucoma or retinitis pigmentosa
Central vision loss – Characteristic of macular degeneration or optic neuropathy
Complete or near-complete blindness – Covered under H54 categories
Visual aura – May occur in migraine-associated H53 visual disturbances

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Blindness and low vision includes visual acuity testing, perimetry (visual field), fundus photography, OCT imaging, neuro-ophthalmic exams, and systemic workup in suspected neurologic or metabolic causes. Severity and cause guide both classification and treatment.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code H54 is used in optometry, ophthalmology, neurology, primary care, and disability documentation. It supports clinical care planning, vision rehabilitation, assistive device authorization, legal blindness certification, and insurance reimbursement.

Related Codes

H53 – Visual disturbances

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code H54?
A: It identifies Blindness and low vision, referring to a spectrum of partial or complete vision loss, functional sight impairment, or other visual anomalies.

Q2: What qualifies as legal blindness (H54)?
A: Typically, best-corrected vision of 20/200 or worse in the better eye, or a visual field of less than 20 degrees.

Q3: Are visual disturbances always serious?
A: Not always—some are transient (e.g., ocular migraine), but others may indicate underlying retinal or neurological pathology.

Q4: Can low vision be improved?
A: Some causes are treatable; others may require vision aids, rehabilitation, or supportive care.

Q5: Who manages these conditions?
A: Ophthalmologists, optometrists, low vision specialists, and neurologists, depending on the root cause.

Conclusion

ICD10 code H54 ensures accurate classification of Blindness and low vision, guiding referrals, rehabilitation services, and documentation for treatment planning and support in patients with compromised visual function.