ICD-10 Code K70.10 – Alcoholic hepatitis without ascites (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K70.10 – Alcoholic hepatitis without ascites
What it is
K70.10 identifies alcoholic hepatitis without ascites, an inflammatory liver condition caused by alcohol use. It applies when documentation supports alcoholic hepatitis and there is no ascites present.
Clinical signs
Common findings include jaundice, right upper quadrant tenderness, nausea, and liver enlargement. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K70.10 when the provider documents alcoholic hepatitis and specifically states that ascites is absent. It may also fit when the record clearly supports alcoholic hepatitis without mention of fluid accumulation in the abdomen. If ascites is documented, choose a different code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if ascites is present or if the diagnosis is only alcohol-related liver disease without hepatitis. Check documentation when the type of liver condition is unclear.
Coding tip
Confirm both the alcoholic hepatitis diagnosis and the absence of ascites before assigning K70.10.