ICD-10 Code K85.8 – Other acute pancreatitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K85.8 – Other acute pancreatitis
What it is
K85.8 identifies an acute inflammation of the pancreas that does not fit a more specific acute pancreatitis category. Use it when the record clearly supports acute pancreatitis but the cause or subtype is not otherwise specified.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal tenderness. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation and imaging or clinician assessment supporting an acute pancreatic process.
When to use this code
Use K85.8 when the provider documents acute pancreatitis and the record does not identify a more specific type, such as biliary, alcohol-induced, or idiopathic pancreatitis. It also fits cases labeled “other” acute pancreatitis. Check documentation if the cause is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for chronic pancreatitis, recurrent pancreatitis, or acute pancreatitis with a documented specific cause that has its own code. Also avoid it when the diagnosis is only suspected. Check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the most specific acute pancreatitis diagnosis available; if the chart names a cause, choose that code instead of K85.8.