ICD-10 Code K20 – Esophagitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K20 – Esophagitis
What it is
K20 identifies inflammation of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Use it when documentation states esophagitis without a more specific cause or subtype.
Clinical signs
Common findings include painful swallowing, difficulty swallowing, or retrosternal discomfort. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the cause and whether the condition is acute, chronic, or erosive.
When to use this code
Use K20 when the record clearly documents esophagitis and does not provide a more specific ICD-10-CM option. It may apply after endoscopic or clinical evaluation when the provider names inflammation of the esophagus.
If the note identifies reflux-related, infectious, eosinophilic, or other specific esophagitis, code to the documented subtype instead. Check documentation when the type or cause is not stated.
Do not use for
Do not use K20 for isolated heartburn, dysphagia, or chest pain without a diagnosis of esophagitis. Do not assign it when the chart documents a different esophageal disorder.
Coding tip
Always look for the provider’s exact esophagitis type before defaulting to K20.