ICD-10 Code B17.10 – Acute hepatitis C without hepatic coma (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B17.10 – Acute hepatitis C without hepatic coma
What it is
B17.10 identifies an acute hepatitis C infection without hepatic coma. Use it when documentation shows a recent or newly recognized hepatitis C illness affecting the liver.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly recorded findings include jaundice, fatigue, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and elevated liver enzymes, but the diagnosis should be supported by the provider’s assessment.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states acute hepatitis C and there is no hepatic coma. It fits initial or active presentations of hepatitis C infection when the provider documents an acute course. If the note only says hepatitis C without acuity, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use B17.10 for chronic hepatitis C, unspecified hepatitis, or hepatitis C with hepatic coma. If the documentation is unclear about acuity or type, verify the diagnosis before coding.
Coding tip
Confirm that “acute” is documented by the provider, not inferred from test results alone.