Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Ocular Motor Apraxia (OMA), specifically the Cogan type, does not have a unique, dedicated ICD-10 or ICD-9 code; it is typically classified under broader categories for eye movement disorders such as ICD-10 code H51.8 (Other specified disorders of binocular movement) or H51.9 (Unspecified disorder of binocular movement). Because Ocular Motor Apraxia is often a clinical manifestation of underlying neurological conditions, coding practices may vary based on the primary diagnosis or associated syndrome, such as Ataxia-Telangiectasia. What exactly is Ocular Motor Apraxia? Ocular Motor Apraxia is a rare neurological condition characterized by the inability to perform voluntary, fast, horizontal eye movements (saccades).
ICD10 code of Ocular Motor Apraxia and ICD9 code
ICD-10 and ICD-9 codes for Ocular Motor Apraxia, with classification details for clinicians, coders and patients.
Ocular Motor Apraxia (OMA), specifically the Cogan type, does not have a unique, dedicated ICD-10 or ICD-9 code; it is typically classified under broader categories for eye movement disorders such as ICD-10 code H51.8 (Other specified disorders of binocular movement) or H51.9 (Unspecified disorder of binocular movement). Because Ocular Motor Apraxia is often a clinical manifestation of underlying neurological conditions, coding practices may vary based on the primary diagnosis or associated syndrome, such as Ataxia-Telangiectasia.
What exactly is Ocular Motor Apraxia?
Ocular Motor Apraxia is a rare neurological condition characterized by the inability to perform voluntary, fast, horizontal eye movements (saccades). Patients with Ocular Motor Apraxia often compensate by using jerky, thrusting head movements to shift their gaze toward an object. This condition can significantly impact daily activities, including reading, tracking objects, and navigating complex environments, often leading to challenges in early childhood development.
How is Ocular Motor Apraxia classified in medical coding?
Because Ocular Motor Apraxia is a symptom rather than a single disease entity, it lacks a specific, dedicated code in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) systems. Clinicians generally use the following approaches to document the condition:
- ICD-10 H51.8: Used for other specified disorders of binocular movement.
- ICD-10 H51.9: Used when the disorder is unspecified.
- ICD-9 378.87: The legacy code for ocular motor apraxia or related binocular movement disorders.
- Underlying Etiology: If Ocular Motor Apraxia is secondary to a condition like Ataxia-Telangiectasia (ICD-10 G11.3), that primary diagnosis is typically prioritized for coding.
Is Ocular Motor Apraxia hereditary?
The inheritance pattern of Ocular Motor Apraxia depends entirely on the underlying cause. In cases of isolated congenital Ocular Motor Apraxia, it may occur sporadically, but when it presents as part of a syndrome—such as Ataxia-Telangiectasia or Joubert Syndrome—it is often inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. Genetic counseling is essential for families navigating a diagnosis of Ocular Motor Apraxia to determine the specific risk of recurrence.
Next steps
- Consult a pediatric neurologist or a neuro-ophthalmologist for a comprehensive evaluation of eye movement control.
- Request a referral to a geneticist to investigate potential syndromic causes of Ocular Motor Apraxia.
- Connect with the DiseaseMaps.org community to share experiences with others navigating rare movement disorders.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare provider.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Ocular Motor Apraxia
- Orphanet: Cogan Ocular Motor Apraxia
- Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM): Ocular Motor Apraxia, Cogan type
- International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10) Browser
