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  2. ICD-10-CM Codes List
  3. H00–H59
  4. H15-H22
  5. Disorders of sclera (H15)

Disorders of sclera (H15)

The ICD-10 code section H15 covers disorders of the sclera, the white outer layer of the eye, including various types of scleritis and episcleritis as well as other scleral conditions. These codes specify conditions such as anterior, posterior, brawny, and necrotizing scleritis, episcleritis variations, staphylomas, and scleral thinning disorders.

This section includes detailed codes for specific scleral inflammations like scleritis (codes H15.0–H15.09), which is also known as "abscess of sclera" or "scleral abscess," and distinguishes by eye affected; right, left, bilateral, or unspecified. For example, the ICD-10 code for scleritis of the right eye is H15.001. It also covers episcleritis (H15.1–H15.12), an inflammation of the superficial sclera layers, with subtypes including nodular episcleritis. Other unique conditions include various staphylomas (bulging of the sclera), such as equatorial staphyloma (H15.81) and ring staphyloma (H15.85), and scleral ectasia (H15.84), all categorized by eye location. This section aids coders in accurately capturing specific scleral diseases, supporting precise documentation and billing for eye inflammatory and structural scleral disorders.

Clinical Terms

The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.

Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis

A multisystemic disease of a complex genetic background. It is characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels (VASCULITIS) leading to damage in any number of organs. The common features include granulomatous inflammation of the RESPIRATORY TRACT and KIDNEYS. Most patients have measurable autoantibodies (ANTINEUTROPHIL CYTOPLASMIC ANTIBODIES) against MYELOBLASTIN.

Scleritis

Refers to any inflammation of the sclera including episcleritis, a benign condition affecting only the episclera, which is generally short-lived and easily treated. Classic scleritis, on the other hand, affects deeper tissue and is characterized by higher rates of visual acuity loss and even mortality, particularly in necrotizing form. Its characteristic symptom is severe and general head pain. Scleritis has also been associated with systemic collagen disease. Etiology is unknown but is thought to involve a local immune response. Treatment is difficult and includes administration of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agents such as corticosteroids. Inflammation of the sclera may also be secondary to inflammation of adjacent tissues, such as the conjunctiva.