ICD-10 Code K81.2 – Acute cholecystitis with chronic cholecystitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K81.2 – Acute cholecystitis with chronic cholecystitis
What it is
K81.2 identifies gallbladder inflammation with both an acute flare and chronic underlying disease. Use it when documentation shows acute cholecystitis superimposed on chronic cholecystitis.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include right upper quadrant abdominal pain, tenderness, and signs of gallbladder inflammation. Imaging or operative findings may support acute inflammation with chronic changes; clinical features vary, refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider clearly documents acute cholecystitis with chronic cholecystitis, or equivalent wording such as acute on chronic cholecystitis. It fits cases where the current episode is acute, but chronic gallbladder disease is also present. Check documentation if the record only states cholecystitis without both components.
Do not use for
Do not use K81.2 for acute cholecystitis alone or chronic cholecystitis alone. If the note is vague, code only what is explicitly documented and do not infer the combined diagnosis.
Coding tip
Look for the exact phrase “acute on chronic” or both conditions documented together before assigning K81.2.