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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH16.31

H16.31

Non-billable

Corneal abscess

BILLABLE STATUSNo
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 H16.31 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of corneal abscess.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Corneal abscess

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity
Corneal abscesses can present with varying degrees of severity, ranging from mild discomfort to significant vision impairment. Diagnosis often requires comprehensive examination and may necessitate advanced imaging or laboratory testing to determine the underlying cause.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Optometry

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H16.31 When
  • Ensure accurate documentation of symptoms, duration, and any prior treatments
  • Include details about the location and extent of the abscess
  • If the abscess is secondary to another condition (e
  • , infection, trauma), document the primary diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H16.31 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Accurate coding of corneal abscesses is crucial for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement. Misclassification can lead to delays in care and potential financial losses for healthcare providers.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Accurate coding of corneal abscesses is crucial for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement. Misclassification can lead to delays in care and potential financial losses for healthcare providers.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement. Misclassification can lead to delays in care and potential financial losses for healthcare providers.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Corneal Ulcers and Abscesses
  • •
    Management of Corneal Infections
  • •
    American Academy of Ophthalmology - Corneal Disorders

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Corneal Ulcers and Abscesses
  • •
    Management of Corneal Infections
  • •
    American Academy of Ophthalmology - Corneal Disorders

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of corneal abscess?

Common causes include bacterial infections, fungal infections, and trauma to the eye. Contact lens wear is also a significant risk factor.

How is a corneal abscess diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough eye examination, including visual acuity tests, slit-lamp examination, and possibly corneal scraping for microbiological analysis.

What treatments are available for corneal abscess?

Treatment options may include topical antibiotics, antifungal medications, and in some cases, surgical intervention such as drainage or corneal transplant.