ICD-10 Code K85.00 – Idiopathic acute pancreatitis without necrosis or infection (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K85.00 – Idiopathic acute pancreatitis without necrosis or infection
What it is
This code identifies an acute inflammation of the pancreas with no documented cause and no necrosis or infection. Use it when the chart supports acute pancreatitis, but the etiology remains idiopathic.
Clinical signs
Common findings include sudden upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and pancreatic inflammation confirmed by imaging or clinical assessment. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K85.00 when the provider documents acute pancreatitis and specifically states the cause is unknown or idiopathic. It also applies when there is no evidence of pancreatic necrosis or infection. If the record later identifies a cause, code the documented etiology instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if the pancreatitis is due to gallstones, alcohol, drugs, or another documented cause. Also avoid it when necrosis or infection is documented; Check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify that “idiopathic” is explicitly documented and that necrosis or infection is not present before assigning K85.00.