Esophageal varices (I85)

Codes within the I85 category of ICD-10-CM specifically describe different types of esophageal varices, which are swollen veins in the esophagus. These codes differentiate whether the varices are bleeding or not and if they are primary or secondary to another condition.

The ICD-10 code I85.00 covers esophageal varices without bleeding, also known by terms such as gastroesophageal varices and downhill varices of the esophagus. For varices that have started bleeding, the code I85.01 is used, often referred to clinically as bleeding esophageal varices. Secondary esophageal varices related to other liver disorders, including cirrhosis and various liver diseases, are coded under I85.10 if not bleeding and I85.11 if they are bleeding. These codes help healthcare providers specifically capture the source and severity of varices, facilitating accurate documentation and treatment planning for conditions like portal hypertension and complications arising from liver disease.