ICD-10 Code K86.81 – Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K86.81 – Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
What it is
K86.81 identifies exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, a condition where the pancreas does not make enough digestive enzymes. This leads to poor digestion and reduced absorption of nutrients.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly documented findings include chronic diarrhea, greasy stools, weight loss, bloating, and evidence of malabsorption or nutrient deficiency.
When to use this code
Use K86.81 when the provider documents exocrine pancreatic insufficiency or pancreatic enzyme deficiency as a diagnosis. It may be reported in chronic pancreatic disease, after pancreatic surgery, or when malabsorption is attributed to inadequate exocrine function.
Do not assign it for nonspecific abdominal complaints or suspected malabsorption without a documented diagnosis. Code from the provider’s confirmed assessment, not from symptoms alone.
Do not use for
Do not use K86.81 for endocrine pancreatic disorders, such as diabetes, or for general malabsorption without pancreatic insufficiency. Check documentation if the record does not clearly link the condition to exocrine pancreatic dysfunction.
Coding tip
Confirm that the provider explicitly documents exocrine pancreatic insufficiency before assigning K86.81.