ICD Code K81

ICD code K81 is acute cholecystitis, which is inflammation of the gallbladder.

1. Presence of right upper quadrant abdominal pain, often acute in onset

2. Fever and/or chills indicating possible infection

3. Nausea and vomiting accompanying abdominal symptoms

4. Positive Murphy’s sign on physical examination

5. Laboratory evidence of leukocytosis (elevated white blood cell count)

6. Imaging findings (ultrasound or CT) showing gallbladder wall thickening, pericholecystic fluid, or gallstones

7. Absence of evidence for other causes of acute abdomen (e.g., pancreatitis, peptic ulcer disease)

Relevant CPT codes that may be used to treat ICD code K81 include:

- 99201–99215 (Evaluation and Management services)

- 47562 (Laparoscopy, surgical; cholecystectomy)

- 47563 (Laparoscopy, surgical; cholecystectomy with cholangiography)

- 47564 (Laparoscopy, surgical; cholecystectomy with exploration of common duct)

- 47600 (Cholecystectomy)

- 47605 (Cholecystectomy with cholangiography)

- 47610 (Cholecystectomy with exploration of common duct)

- 78015 (Hepatobiliary imaging)

- 96372 (Therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic injection)

CPT code selection should be based on the specific clinical scenario and procedures performed for ICD code K81.

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