Disorders of esophagus in diseases classified elsewhere
Chapter 11:Diseases of the digestive system
ICD-10 K23 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of disorders of esophagus in diseases classified elsewhere.
K23 refers to disorders of the esophagus that are classified elsewhere in the ICD-10 coding system. This includes conditions such as esophageal varices, esophagitis, and esophageal ulcers, which may arise as complications of systemic diseases like cirrhosis or malignancies. The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat (pharynx) with the stomach, and its disorders can lead to significant gastrointestinal symptoms including dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), odynophagia (painful swallowing), and gastroesophageal reflux. Disease progression can vary; for instance, esophagitis may lead to strictures or Barrett's esophagus, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer. Diagnostic considerations include endoscopy, imaging studies, and biopsies to ascertain the underlying cause and severity of the disorder. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate management and treatment planning, as well as for understanding the impact of these conditions on patient health outcomes.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
K23 encompasses disorders of the esophagus that are secondary to other diseases, such as esophageal varices due to portal hypertension, esophagitis from autoimmune disorders, and esophageal ulcers resulting from malignancies or infections.
K23 should be used when the esophageal disorder is a direct consequence of another disease process, as opposed to primary esophageal conditions which have their own specific codes.
Documentation should include a clear diagnosis of the underlying disease, clinical findings related to the esophageal disorder, and any relevant diagnostic tests or imaging results that support the coding.
