ICD-10 Code K70.1 – Alcoholic hepatitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K70.1 – Alcoholic hepatitis
What it is
K70.1 identifies alcoholic hepatitis, an inflammatory liver condition caused by alcohol use. Use it when documentation states alcoholic hepatitis or a similar alcohol-related liver inflammation.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly reported findings may include jaundice, right upper quadrant pain, nausea, fever, or liver tenderness, but you should code only what is documented.
When to use this code
Use K70.1 when the provider diagnoses alcoholic hepatitis and links the condition to alcohol use. It is appropriate for inpatient, outpatient, or problem-list documentation when the record clearly names alcoholic hepatitis. If the note only says liver disease or abnormal liver tests, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use K70.1 for alcoholic fatty liver, alcoholic cirrhosis, or unspecified alcohol-related liver disease unless alcoholic hepatitis is specifically documented. Check documentation if the diagnosis is unclear.
Coding tip
Code K70.1 only when the provider explicitly documents alcoholic hepatitis, and capture any additional alcohol-related liver diagnoses separately if supported.