ICD-10 Code B18 – Chronic Viral Hepatitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B18 – Chronic viral hepatitis
What it is
B18 identifies chronic viral hepatitis, a long-lasting liver infection caused by a hepatitis virus. Use it when the record documents chronic viral hepatitis without a more specific subtype.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Chronic viral hepatitis may be asymptomatic or associated with ongoing liver inflammation, fatigue, abdominal discomfort, or abnormal liver findings noted by the clinician.
When to use this code
Use B18 when the provider documents chronic viral hepatitis and does not name a specific virus or chronic subtype. It also fits when the chart confirms persistent viral hepatitis over time but the exact etiology is not specified. If the record identifies a more precise chronic hepatitis code, report that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use B18 for acute viral hepatitis or for nonviral chronic liver disease. If the documentation specifies a particular chronic hepatitis type, use the more specific code rather than this unspecified category.
Coding tip
Check the note for the exact hepatitis type and chronicity before assigning B18.