The International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) is crucial for medical diagnosis coding and billing. Among its extensive codes, B18.2 specifically designates Chronic viral hepatitis C. This code is essential for healthcare professionals, بیمهگران, and medical coders in the United States. Understanding the nuances of the Hepatitis C Diagnosis Code, particularly ICD-10-CM B18.2, is vital for accurate record-keeping and healthcare reimbursement.
Decoding ICD-10-CM Code B18.2: Chronic Viral Hepatitis C
ICD-10-CM code B18.2 is a billable/specific code, meaning it is precise enough to be used for reimbursement claims. The code officially came into effect on October 1, 2015, with the 2025 edition becoming effective on October 1, 2024. It is the American version of ICD-10 B18.2; international versions may have variations. This specific code is applicable when the diagnosis is Chronic viral hepatitis C and also for individuals identified as a carrier of viral hepatitis C.
Synonyms and Clinical Context of B18.2
Several terms are considered approximate synonyms for ICD-10-CM code B18.2, providing a broader understanding of its application. These include:
- Chronic hepatitis C
- Chronic hepatitis C with stage 3 fibrosis
- Chronic hepatitis C, stage 3 fibrosis
- Cryoglobulinemia due to chronic hepatitis C
- Hepatic coma due to chronic hepatitis C
- Hepatitis C carrier
- Hepatitis C, chronic
- Hepatitis C, chronic, with hepatic coma
Clinically, chronic hepatitis C refers to a persistent inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) that lasts for six months or longer. This long-term condition can lead to serious liver damage, including liver cirrhosis and other complications.
Annotation Back-References and Code History
Within the ICD-10-CM system, annotation back-references link code B18.2 to other related codes that contain specific annotations. These annotations provide further context and instructions and can include:
- Applicable To annotations
- Code Also annotations
- Code First annotations
- Excludes1 annotations
- Excludes2 annotations
- Includes annotations
- Note annotations
- Use Additional annotations
Reviewing these back-references can provide a more complete picture when coding related conditions. Looking at the code history, B18.2 was introduced in 2016 and has remained unchanged through the 2025 edition, indicating its established and consistent use within the ICD-10-CM system for coding chronic viral hepatitis C.
Importance for Reimbursement and Medical Coding
For claims with a service date on or after October 1, 2015, using ICD-10-CM codes like B18.2 is mandatory for accurate medical coding and reimbursement. This specific hepatitis c diagnosis code ensures that chronic cases are correctly identified and classified, facilitating appropriate billing and data tracking for hepatitis C related health concerns.
