ICD-10 Code B16 – Acute hepatitis B (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B16 – Acute hepatitis B
What it is
B16 identifies an acute infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. Use it when documentation shows a new or recent hepatitis B illness, not a chronic carrier state.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Acute hepatitis B may present with jaundice, fatigue, anorexia, nausea, abdominal discomfort, or elevated liver enzymes.
When to use this code
Use B16 when the provider documents acute hepatitis B, acute HBV infection, or a recent symptomatic hepatitis B episode. It may also apply when acute infection is confirmed by clinical assessment or testing. Check documentation if the record does not clearly distinguish acute from chronic disease.
Do not use for
Do not use B16 for chronic hepatitis B, inactive carrier status, or unspecified hepatitis without evidence of acute HBV infection. Check documentation when the type of hepatitis is unclear.
Coding tip
Confirm that the record states “acute” hepatitis B before assigning B16.