ICD-10 Code K85.1 – Biliary acute pancreatitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K85.1 – Biliary acute pancreatitis
What it is
K85.1 identifies acute pancreatitis caused by biliary disease, usually gallstones or sludge blocking the pancreatic duct. You use it when the record links the acute pancreatic inflammation to a biliary source.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, often with evidence of gallstone disease or biliary obstruction. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K85.1 when the provider documents acute pancreatitis due to gallstones, choledocholithiasis, or another biliary cause. It also fits when the note clearly states “biliary pancreatitis” or an equivalent term. If the cause is not specified, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use K85.1 for pancreatitis from alcohol, drugs, trauma, or unspecified causes. If the chart does not support a biliary origin, select the more accurate code after review.
Coding tip
Look for explicit provider wording tying the acute pancreatitis to a biliary source before coding K85.1.