ICD-10 Code K85.21 – Alcohol induced acute pancreatitis with uninfected necrosis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K85.21 – Alcohol induced acute pancreatitis with uninfected necrosis
What it is
This code identifies an acute inflammation of the pancreas caused by alcohol use, with tissue death present but no infection in the necrotic area. Use it when the record clearly links the pancreatitis to alcohol and documents uninfected necrosis.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal tenderness. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for evidence of necrosis and the alcohol-related cause.
When to use this code
Use K85.21 when the provider documents acute pancreatitis due to alcohol and specifically states uninfected pancreatic necrosis. It is appropriate for inpatient or outpatient records when the diagnosis is confirmed or clearly documented. If the cause or necrosis status is unclear, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pancreatitis without necrosis, infected necrosis, or cases where alcohol is not documented as the cause. If the record only says “acute pancreatitis,” choose a more specific code only when supported.
Coding tip
Always verify both elements: alcohol-induced etiology and uninfected necrosis; if either is missing, this code is not supported.