ICD-10 Code K90.9 – Intestinal malabsorption, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K90.9 – Intestinal malabsorption, unspecified
What it is
K90.9 identifies intestinal malabsorption when the chart does not specify a cause or subtype. Use it for impaired absorption of nutrients from the intestine when documentation remains nonspecific.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly documented findings include chronic diarrhea, weight loss, bloating, or nutritional deficiency, but the record should support malabsorption rather than another gastrointestinal disorder.
When to use this code
Use K90.9 when the provider documents intestinal malabsorption without naming celiac disease, pancreatic insufficiency, short bowel syndrome, or another defined disorder. It also fits cases where the note confirms malabsorption but does not identify the underlying etiology.
If the chart later specifies a cause, code the more specific diagnosis instead. You should rely on the final assessment, problem list, or discharge summary when available.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for a known, documented cause of malabsorption or for nonspecific abdominal symptoms alone. Check documentation if the record only mentions diarrhea, weight loss, or poor intake without malabsorption.
Coding tip
Code K90.9 only when “malabsorption” is clearly stated and no more specific intestinal disorder is documented.