ICD-10 Code K70.40 – Alcoholic hepatic failure without coma (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K70.40 – Alcoholic hepatic failure without coma
What it is
K70.40 identifies liver failure caused by alcohol use, without coma. Use it when the record clearly documents alcoholic hepatic failure and the patient is not comatose.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include jaundice, confusion, ascites, or other signs of severe liver dysfunction, but the chart must support hepatic failure from alcohol use.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents alcoholic liver failure and specifically states no coma is present. It may apply during inpatient or outpatient care when the diagnosis is confirmed in the assessment, discharge summary, or problem list.
If the record only mentions alcoholic liver disease, cirrhosis, or encephalopathy without hepatic failure, check documentation before assigning K70.40. Code the condition exactly as documented and follow any sequencing guidance in the chart.
Do not use for
Do not use K70.40 for alcoholic hepatitis, cirrhosis, or unspecified liver disease without failure. It is also not appropriate if coma is documented; check the more specific code set.
Coding tip
Confirm both alcohol-related hepatic failure and the absence of coma in provider documentation before coding K70.40.