ICD-10 Code K70.3 – Alcoholic cirrhosis of liver (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K70.3 – Alcoholic cirrhosis of liver
What it is
K70.3 identifies cirrhosis of the liver caused by alcohol use. Use this code when the chart documents alcoholic cirrhosis, a chronic scarring process that limits normal liver function.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly documented findings may include signs of chronic liver disease, portal hypertension, or liver decompensation, but you should code only what is clearly recorded.
When to use this code
Use K70.3 when the provider states alcoholic cirrhosis, alcoholic liver cirrhosis, or cirrhosis due to alcohol. It is appropriate for encounters focused on the chronic liver disease itself or when it is listed as an active diagnosis. If the record does not clearly link cirrhosis to alcohol, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use K70.3 for cirrhosis from other causes, such as viral hepatitis or biliary disease. Do not use it when alcohol use is documented without cirrhosis.
Coding tip
Confirm that the provider explicitly connects the cirrhosis to alcohol; if not, query or code the documented condition only.