Cholecystitis, unspecified
ICD-10 K81.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cholecystitis, unspecified.
Cholecystitis, unspecified, refers to inflammation of the gallbladder that is not specified as acute or chronic. The gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver, plays a crucial role in the digestive system by storing bile, which helps in the digestion of fats. Clinical presentation may include abdominal pain, particularly in the right upper quadrant, nausea, vomiting, and fever. The disease can progress from mild inflammation to severe complications such as perforation or abscess formation if left untreated. Diagnostic considerations include imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans to visualize gallbladder inflammation and rule out other conditions. Laboratory tests may reveal elevated white blood cell counts and liver function tests may indicate biliary obstruction. Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate management, which may range from conservative treatment to surgical intervention, such as cholecystectomy, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the inflammation.
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
K81.9 covers unspecified cholecystitis, which may include cases where the inflammation is not clearly defined as acute or chronic. It is important to differentiate it from other biliary conditions such as choledocholithiasis or pancreatitis.
K81.9 should be used when the clinical documentation does not specify the type of cholecystitis. If the condition is clearly acute or chronic, the more specific codes K81.0 or K81.1 should be utilized.
Documentation should include clinical findings, imaging results, laboratory tests, and any treatment plans. Clear notes on the patient's symptoms and the physician's assessment are crucial for supporting the use of K81.9.
