Hypertensive retinopathy, unspecified eye

This code signifies retinal damage caused by chronically elevated blood pressure, where the specific eye affected is not documented. It encompasses various retinal changes such as arteriolar narrowing, hemorrhages, exudates, and optic disc edema resulting from hypertension.

Use this code when the physician's documentation clearly states "hypertensive retinopathy" but does not specify whether it affects the right, left, or both eyes. This applies when the laterality is unknown or not recorded in the medical record.

• Always query the provider for laterality if not documented to allow for more specific coding (H35.031, H35.032, H35.033).
• Code also the underlying essential hypertension (I10) or secondary hypertension (I15.-) as a primary diagnosis, if applicable.
• Avoid using this code if the documentation specifies "bilateral" or a particular eye; instead, use the appropriate laterality code.