ICD-10 K85.9
Non-Billable HeaderAcute pancreatitis, unspecified
About ICD-10-CM K85.9
ICD-10-CM code K85.9 represents Acute pancreatitis, unspecified. This is a non-billable header code in the Digestive System chapter (block K85). The 2026 edition of ICD-10-CM K85.9 became effective on October 1, 2025. Non-billable codes cannot be used as a primary or secondary diagnosis on a claim, use a more specific child code instead.
Inclusion Terms / Approximate Synonyms
Clinical terms and conditions classified under K85.9. Per CMS ICD-10-CM Tabular 2026.
- Pancreatitis NOS
Medicare LCD Coverage for K85.9
Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) from CMS MACs that list K85.9 as a covered diagnosis.
This doesn't mean the code isn't covered, it means no MAC has issued a Local Coverage Determination naming this specific code. Coverage may still apply under National Coverage Determinations or general medical-necessity rules.
Commercial Payer Coverage
Coverage policies from major commercial payers referencing K85.9.
Our payer policy database covers Aetna, Cigna, Anthem, BCBS, Humana, and Medicare Advantage plans, but K85.9 doesn't currently appear in any indexed policy. The code may still be covered under standard plan benefits.
CPT Codes Commonly Billed with K85.9
Procedures frequently paired with this diagnosis based on PayerReady's Dx↔Px linkage data.
- 74177 CT abdomen/pelvis with contrast — abdominal pain, colon cancer staging, liver mets, cholelithiasis, pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, abnormal imaging Radiology
- 74176 CT abdomen/pelvis without contrast — same indications as with contrast when contrast contraindicated Radiology
Codes Adjacent To K85.9
Other codes in section K80-K87 (Disorders of gallbladder, biliary tract and pancreas).
ICD-10 K85.9, Billing FAQ
Is ICD-10 code K85.9 billable? +
No, K85.9 is a non-billable header code. Use a more specific child code from block K85 when submitting claims.
What other names or terms map to K85.9? +
ICD-10 K85.9 includes: Pancreatitis NOS.
What CPT codes are commonly billed with K85.9? +
Procedures frequently paired with K85.9 include: 74177, 74176.
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Reviewed by the PayerReady Medical Coding Team
Verified against the CMS 2026 code set on May 31, 2026.
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