ICD-10 Code I85.00 – Esophageal varices without bleeding (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I85.00 – Esophageal varices without bleeding
What it is
I85.00 identifies esophageal varices that are present but not actively bleeding. Use it when the record documents varices in the esophagus without hemorrhage.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Varices are often found on endoscopy and may be described as dilated, tortuous veins in the esophagus without evidence of bleeding.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents esophageal varices and explicitly states there is no bleeding. It also fits follow-up visits for known varices when the encounter is focused on the nonbleeding condition. If the note does not specify bleeding status, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use I85.00 if the varices are bleeding; that requires a different code. Do not assign it for suspected varices or for varices in another site.
Coding tip
Verify that the record clearly says “without bleeding,” “nonbleeding,” or an equivalent statement before assigning I85.00.