ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesB30.9

B30.9

Viral Conjunctivitis, unspecified

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 B30.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of viral conjunctivitis, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Viral conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva caused by viral infections. The most prevalent viruses associated with this condition include adenoviruses, which are responsible for the majority of cases, as well as herpes simplex virus and varicella-zoster virus. Symptoms typically include redness, itching, tearing, and discharge from the eye, which may be watery or mucous-like. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the patient's history and physical examination, although laboratory tests such as conjunctival swabs may be performed to identify the specific viral pathogen in atypical cases. Treatment is generally supportive, focusing on symptom relief, as most viral conjunctivitis cases are self-limiting. Antiviral medications may be indicated in cases caused by herpes simplex virus, particularly if the infection is severe or recurrent. Proper hygiene practices are essential to prevent the spread of the infection, especially in communal settings.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and symptoms
  • Differentiation from bacterial conjunctivitis
  • Potential for co-infection with other pathogens
  • Need for laboratory confirmation in atypical cases

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the viral etiology when known
  • Misclassification as bacterial conjunctivitis
  • Lack of follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed examination findings, including visual acuity and specific symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with red eye, discharge, and itching, especially in outbreak settings.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should specify the duration of symptoms and any associated systemic symptoms.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

History of present illness, review of systems, and any relevant past medical history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with acute onset of eye redness and discharge, often in a family or school setting.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of exposure history and potential for viral outbreaks in the community.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use B30.9 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, B30
  • 9 is used when the specific viral cause of conjunctivitis is not documented
  • Coders should ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical findings and that other causes of conjunctivitis are ruled out

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use B30.9 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

92002CPT Code

Ophthalmological examination, new patient

Clinical Scenario

When a patient presents with conjunctivitis symptoms for evaluation.

Documentation Requirements

Document the examination findings, visual acuity, and any treatments provided.

Specialty Considerations

Ophthalmologists may require more detailed documentation of ocular health.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of viral conjunctivitis, enabling better tracking of epidemiological trends and treatment outcomes. B30.9 serves as a catch-all for unspecified cases, but coders should strive for specificity when possible.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of viral conjunctivitis, enabling better tracking of epidemiological trends and treatment outcomes. B30.9 serves as a catch-all for unspecified cases, but coders should strive for specificity when possible.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of viral conjunctivitis, enabling better tracking of epidemiological trends and treatment outcomes. B30.9 serves as a catch-all for unspecified cases, but coders should strive for specificity when possible.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Viral Conjunctivitis Information

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Viral Conjunctivitis Information

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use B30.9 instead of a more specific code?

B30.9 should be used when the specific viral cause of conjunctivitis is not documented or when the clinical presentation does not allow for a more specific diagnosis.