ICD-10 Code K72 – Hepatic failure, not elsewhere classified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K72 – Hepatic failure, not elsewhere classified
What it is
K72 identifies hepatic failure when the record does not specify another defined cause or type. Use it for serious loss of liver function documented as hepatic failure, without a more specific ICD-10-CM option.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly recorded findings include jaundice, altered mental status, coagulopathy, and evidence of severe liver dysfunction or decompensation.
When to use this code
Use K72 when the provider documents hepatic failure and the chart does not identify a more specific category. It may apply in acute, chronic, or unspecified failure if the note only states hepatic failure. Check documentation for associated liver disease, encephalopathy, or other clarified terms that may require a different code.
Do not use for
Do not use K72 for routine liver disease, hepatitis, or cirrhosis without documented hepatic failure. If the record specifies a more exact failure type or cause, code that diagnosis instead.
Coding tip
Code the documented failure term exactly and verify whether the provider also states encephalopathy or another qualifying liver condition.