ICD-10 Code K22 – Other diseases of esophagus (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K22 – Other diseases of esophagus
What it is
K22 is a category for esophageal disorders that do not fit a more specific diagnosis. It covers other diseases of the esophagus, so you should use the most precise code available when documentation supports it.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common esophageal complaints may include dysphagia, pain with swallowing, reflux-type symptoms, or food sticking, but the exact findings depend on the underlying disorder.
When to use this code
Use K22 when the provider documents a disease of the esophagus but does not name a more specific condition. It may apply when the chart states an esophageal disorder, and no better-defined code is available. Check the record for the exact diagnosis before assigning this category.
Do not use for
Do not use K22 when documentation supports a specific esophageal diagnosis such as reflux disease, varices, or other named conditions. Also avoid it if the provider has not clearly identified an esophageal disease. Check documentation.
Coding tip
Always code the most specific esophageal diagnosis documented; use K22 only as a nonspecific fallback when the record lacks further detail.