Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-04-06
The ICD-10 code for viral hepatitis varies by type, ranging from B15 to B19, while the corresponding ICD-9 codes generally fall within the 070 series. Because Hepatitis represents a broad clinical category of liver inflammation rather than a single diagnosis, coding is highly specific to the underlying etiology. In the ICD-10-CM classification system, acute hepatitis A is coded as B15, acute hepatitis B as B16, and other acute viral hepatitis types (such as C, D, and E) are categorized under B17 and B18.
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ICD10 code of Hepatitis and ICD9 code
ICD-10 and ICD-9 codes for Hepatitis, with classification details for clinicians, coders and patients.
The ICD-10 code for viral hepatitis varies by type, ranging from B15 to B19, while the corresponding ICD-9 codes generally fall within the 070 series.
Because Hepatitis represents a broad clinical category of liver inflammation rather than a single diagnosis, coding is highly specific to the underlying etiology. In the ICD-10-CM classification system, acute hepatitis A is coded as B15, acute hepatitis B as B16, and other acute viral hepatitis types (such as C, D, and E) are categorized under B17 and B18. Chronic Hepatitis, which is a major concern for our community members, often requires more nuanced coding, such as B18.0 or B18.1, depending on the presence of the delta agent or specific viral antigens.
Understanding Clinical Coding
For patients and caregivers navigating the healthcare system, these codes are essential for insurance billing and medical record consistency. Under the older ICD-9-CM system, Hepatitis was primarily categorized under codes 070.0 through 070.9. It is important to note that these codes do not account for non-viral forms of the disease, such as autoimmune Hepatitis or alcoholic liver disease, which utilize entirely different code sets (typically within the K70-K77 range in ICD-10).
Support and Clarity
We understand that encountering complex medical coding can feel overwhelming when you are focused on managing your health or supporting a loved one. Please remember that these codes are administrative tools for healthcare providers and do not define your journey or the severity of your condition. If you are struggling with insurance coverage or understanding your medical bills, your hepatologist’s office or a patient advocate can often help clarify which specific Hepatitis code is being used and why it is appropriate for your clinical presentation.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) - Hepatitis Overview
- World Health Organization (WHO) - ICD-10 Version:2019
- Orphanet - Rare Liver Diseases Portal
Posted May 19, 2017 by Rocio 2900
