ICD-10 Code E87.20 – Acidosis, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code E87.20 – Acidosis, unspecified
What it is
E87.20 identifies acidosis when the record does not specify the type or cause. Use it for a documented acid-base disorder with no further detail.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly recorded findings may include an acid-base imbalance, but the chart should support that acidosis is present without naming a more specific form.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents acidosis but does not specify metabolic, respiratory, or another subtype. It also fits when the note lacks enough detail to assign a more precise code. If the record names a cause or a different acid-base disorder, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use E87.20 when the documentation clearly identifies a specific acidosis type or an underlying condition that should be coded separately. Do not assign it for normal acid-base variation or suspected acidosis without confirmation.
Coding tip
Check the assessment and discharge summary first; if the type is stated anywhere, choose the more specific code.