Chronic cholecystitis
ICD-10 K81.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic cholecystitis.
Chronic cholecystitis is a long-standing inflammation of the gallbladder, often resulting from repeated episodes of acute cholecystitis or prolonged irritation due to gallstones. Clinically, patients may present with intermittent abdominal pain, particularly in the right upper quadrant, nausea, and dyspepsia. The gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver, plays a crucial role in the digestion of fats by storing bile. Over time, chronic inflammation can lead to fibrosis and thickening of the gallbladder wall, potentially resulting in complications such as gallbladder perforation or the development of gallbladder cancer. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans, which can reveal gallstones and gallbladder wall abnormalities. Laboratory tests may show elevated liver enzymes or bilirubin levels, indicating possible complications. A definitive diagnosis often requires a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging, and sometimes histopathological examination following cholecystectomy.
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
K81.1 specifically covers chronic cholecystitis, characterized by persistent inflammation of the gallbladder, often due to gallstones. It may also encompass conditions leading to chronic irritation of the gallbladder wall.
K81.1 should be used when there is clear evidence of chronic inflammation of the gallbladder, as opposed to acute cholecystitis (K81.0), which is characterized by sudden onset and may require immediate surgical intervention.
Documentation for K81.1 should include a detailed clinical history of symptoms, imaging studies confirming chronic changes in the gallbladder, and any relevant laboratory findings that support the diagnosis.
