ICD-10 Code I75.81 – Atheroembolism of kidney (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I75.81 – Atheroembolism of kidney
What it is
I75.81 identifies atheroembolism affecting the kidney, meaning cholesterol or atherosclerotic debris has traveled from a larger artery and lodged in renal vessels. This can reduce blood flow and injure kidney tissue.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include acute or subacute kidney dysfunction after an arterial procedure or embolic event, with evidence of cholesterol embolization elsewhere.
When to use this code
Use I75.81 when the record clearly documents renal atheroembolism or cholesterol emboli to the kidney. It is appropriate when the provider links kidney injury to embolic atherosclerotic debris, not to nonspecific renal failure alone. Check documentation if the source or organ involvement is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for ordinary renal artery stenosis, thromboembolism, or unspecified acute kidney injury without a documented atheroembolic cause. If the note does not specify the kidney as the target organ, check documentation.
Coding tip
Look for explicit wording such as “atheroembolism,” “cholesterol emboli,” or “renal embolization” tied to the kidney before assigning I75.81.