H16.033
BillableCorneal ulcer with hypopyon, bilateral
This code does not map to an HCC category in any model (V28, V24, ESRD, RxHCC).
What This Code Means
A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the clear front surface of the eye (cornea), and hypopyon refers to pus that has accumulated in the front chamber of the eye. This code indicates that this condition is occurring in both eyes.
Coding Tips
- •Verify that the documentation explicitly states 'bilateral' or confirms involvement of both eyes before assigning this code; unilateral cases require different codes (H16.031 for right eye, H16.032 for left eye)
- •Ensure the presence of hypopyon is documented, as this is a serious complication that distinguishes this code from other corneal ulcer codes and typically indicates a more severe infection requiring urgent treatment
Code Hierarchy
└H16Keratitis└H16.0Corneal ulcer└H16.03Corneal ulcer with hypopyon└H16.033Corneal ulcer with hypopyon, bilateral
└H16.033Corneal ulcer with hypopyon, bilateral