ICD-10 Code I85.0 – Esophageal Varices (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I85.0 – Esophageal varices
What it is
I85.0 identifies varicose veins in the esophagus. These dilated veins usually reflect portal hypertension and may be found during endoscopy or after bleeding is suspected.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include evidence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, such as hematemesis or melena, and endoscopic confirmation of esophageal varices.
When to use this code
Use I85.0 when the record documents esophageal varices without specifying bleeding. It also fits endoscopy reports or specialist notes that clearly identify varices in the esophagus. If the provider links the varices to bleeding, code the documented bleeding diagnosis instead, when instructed by the record.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for gastric varices, portal hypertension alone, or nonspecific upper GI bleeding without documented esophageal varices. Check documentation if the site or bleeding status is unclear.
Coding tip
Verify whether the note states varices with or without bleeding before assigning the code.