Chronic viral hepatitis B without delta-agent

This code signifies a persistent inflammation of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus, specifically in cases where there is no co-infection with the hepatitis D (delta) virus. It indicates a long-term infection, typically lasting six months or more, which can lead to progressive liver damage.

Use this code for patients diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B infection, confirmed by serological markers (e.g., positive HBsAg for over six months) and the absence of delta agent markers. This applies when the patient is not acutely ill but has ongoing viral replication or liver inflammation due to HBV.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "chronic" hepatitis B and explicitly rules out delta agent co-infection.
• Do not use this code for acute hepatitis B; refer to codes in the B16 category for acute infections.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis when managing complications or related conditions.