ICD-10 Code L29.81 – Cholestatic pruritus (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L29.81 – Cholestatic pruritus
What it is
Cholestatic pruritus means itching caused by impaired bile flow. You use this code when documentation links the itch to cholestasis or another biliary disorder.
Clinical signs
Patients typically report persistent itching, often without a primary skin rash. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the underlying cholestatic condition and associated findings.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents pruritus due to cholestasis, such as in liver or biliary disease. It may also apply when itching is recorded as cholestatic or bile-related pruritus. If the note only says “itching,” check documentation for a causal link before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use it for generalized pruritus without a documented cholestatic cause. Avoid this code if the itching is clearly due to skin disease, allergy, or another non-biliary condition.
Coding tip
Code the cholestatic cause when documented, and use L29.81 only when the record clearly connects the pruritus to cholestasis.