ICD-10 Code K83.0 – Cholangitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K83.0 – Cholangitis
What it is
K83.0 identifies cholangitis, an inflammation or infection of the bile ducts. Use it when documentation states cholangitis without a more specific cause or location.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include right upper quadrant pain, fever, jaundice, and evidence of biliary obstruction or infection.
When to use this code
Use K83.0 when the provider documents cholangitis as the diagnosis, including acute or unspecified cases that are not further characterized. It may apply in inpatient, emergency, or outpatient records when the condition is confirmed or clearly assessed. If the note specifies a different biliary disorder, code that diagnosis instead.
Do not use for
Do not use K83.0 for isolated gallbladder disease, cholecystitis, or nonspecific abdominal pain. If documentation names another biliary tract condition, check documentation and code the stated diagnosis.
Coding tip
Verify whether the record documents acute, recurrent, or obstructive features, and code the more specific biliary diagnosis when available.