2025 ICD-10-CM code H54.0
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Diseases of the eye and adnexa - Visual disturbances and blindness Diseases of the eye and adnexa (H00-H59) Feed
Blindness in both eyes.
The medical necessity of coding H54.0 is established by the presence of complete bilateral blindness, confirmed by thorough ophthalmologic examination.The underlying condition causing the blindness should also be documented to support the medical necessity of any related treatment or services.
Ophthalmologist or other qualified eye care professional.
In simple words: This code means the person is completely blind in both eyes.
This code signifies complete loss of vision in both eyes.It encompasses visual impairment categories 3, 4, and 5 in both eyes.The underlying cause of blindness should be coded separately.Excludes amaurosis fugax (G45.3).
Example 1: A patient presents with complete bilateral vision loss due to glaucoma.H54.0 is coded along with the appropriate glaucoma code (e.g., H40.1 - Primary open-angle glaucoma)., A patient experiences irreversible vision loss in both eyes following a severe head injury.H54.0 is coded along with a code for the injury (from chapter XIX of ICD-10)., A patient with diabetic retinopathy progresses to total bilateral blindness.H54.0 is coded, along with the diabetic retinopathy code (E10.3, E11.3, E13.3 etc.) and the underlying diabetes code.
Complete ophthalmologic examination report including visual acuity testing (e.g., 20/200 or worse), visual field testing, and diagnostic testing to identify the underlying cause of blindness.Detailed documentation of patient history, including any relevant trauma or medical conditions.
** This code is used for complete blindness in both eyes.The severity of vision loss may be further specified using additional codes (H54.0X series).
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Ophthalmology
- Place of Service:Office, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital