Cholangitis
ICD-10 K83.0 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of cholangitis.
Cholangitis is an infection of the bile duct system, often resulting from a blockage due to gallstones, strictures, or tumors. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as jaundice, fever, chills, and abdominal pain, particularly in the right upper quadrant. The anatomy involved includes the bile ducts, gallbladder, and liver, which are crucial for bile production and excretion. Disease progression can lead to severe complications like sepsis or liver abscess if not treated promptly. Diagnostic considerations typically involve imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI to identify obstructions, along with laboratory tests to assess liver function and infection markers. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical to prevent serious outcomes, making awareness of cholangitis essential in gastrointestinal practice.
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
K83.0 specifically covers acute cholangitis, which may arise from conditions such as choledocholithiasis (bile duct stones), biliary strictures, or tumors obstructing the bile duct. It is characterized by the classic triad of fever, jaundice, and right upper quadrant pain.
K83.0 should be used when the patient presents with symptoms indicative of cholangitis, particularly when there is evidence of infection and obstruction in the bile duct system. It is important to differentiate it from other biliary conditions, such as K83.1 (Cholecystitis), which does not involve the bile duct.
Documentation for K83.0 should include clinical notes detailing the patient's symptoms, diagnostic imaging results, laboratory findings indicating infection, and any treatments administered. Clear documentation of the clinical decision-making process is essential for accurate coding.
