ICD-10 Code K76.82 – Hepatic Encephalopathy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K76.82 – Hepatic encephalopathy
What it is
K76.82 identifies hepatic encephalopathy, a brain dysfunction caused by liver disease or liver failure. It means the liver is not clearing toxins well enough, leading to altered mental function.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include confusion, impaired attention, personality change, sleep disturbance, and in severe cases, lethargy or coma. A clinician should document the encephalopathy and its hepatic cause.
When to use this code
Use K76.82 when the record clearly states hepatic encephalopathy or portal-systemic encephalopathy. It is appropriate when the provider links the mental status change to liver disease, cirrhosis, or liver failure. Check documentation if the cause is not explicit.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unspecified delirium, metabolic encephalopathy without a hepatic cause, or altered mental status alone. If the note does not connect the condition to liver disease, you need more documentation.
Coding tip
Code the hepatic encephalopathy only when the provider documents the hepatic connection; otherwise, query or check documentation.