Disorders of esophagus in diseases classified elsewhere (K23) ICD-10-CM
The K23 code range covers disorders of esophagus in diseases classified elsewhere with 1 ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes. 1 of them are billable and valid for claim submission in fiscal year 2026, and the category headers group them but cannot themselves be billed.
Code First
Certain conditions have both an underlying etiology and multiple body system manifestations due to the underlying etiology. For such conditions, the ICD-10-CM has a coding convention that requires the underlying condition be sequenced first followed by the manifestation. Wherever such a combination exists, there is a "use additional code" note at the etiology code, and a "code first" note at the manifestation code. These instructional notes indicate the proper sequencing order of the codes, etiology followed by manifestation.
- underlying disease, such as:
- congenital syphilis A50.5
Type 1 Excludes
A type 1 excludes note is a pure excludes note. It means "NOT CODED HERE!" An Excludes1 note indicates that the code excluded should never be used at the same time as the code above the Excludes1 note. An Excludes1 is used when two conditions cannot occur together, such as a congenital form versus an acquired form of the same condition.
Codes in the K23 Range 1 codes · 1 billable
- K23 Disorders of esophagus in diseases classified elsewhere
About the K23 Code Range
The ICD-10 code K23 is used to classify disorders of the esophagus that occur as a complication of other diseases. This code specifically addresses conditions where the esophagus is affected due to abnormalities or compressions caused by other medical problems, not primary esophageal diseases.
K23 covers esophageal conditions such as compression by an aberrant artery, including vascular compression by an aberrant right subclavian artery arising from the descending aorta. Known terms like "compression of esophagus," "vascular compression of esophagus," and "ectopic artery" fall under this category. These synonyms help medical coders identify that when patients have esophageal symptoms caused by unusual blood vessel positions or other external factors classified elsewhere, K23 is the appropriate ICD-10 code to use. Understanding this linkage ensures accurate coding for complex cases where esophageal disorders are secondary to vascular or other systemic diseases.
Questions About This Page
How many billable codes are in the K23 range?
Of the 1 codes in this range, 1 are billable and valid for claim submission from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. Category header codes group them but cannot be reported on claims.
What does the K23 range classify?
The range classifies disorders of esophagus in diseases classified elsewhere. Each code links to its own reference page with billing status, MS-DRG grouping, coding notes, and clinical information.
Related References
Source: CMS FY 2026 ICD-10-CM Tabular List and order file, effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026.
