Unspecified viral hepatitis C without hepatic coma

This code identifies a diagnosis of hepatitis C of viral origin where the specific type of hepatitis C (e.g., acute, chronic) is not documented, and there is no associated hepatic coma. It signifies an uncharacterized hepatitis C infection.

Use this code when the medical record confirms a diagnosis of viral hepatitis C, but the provider documentation does not specify whether it is acute or chronic, nor does it mention hepatic coma. This code is appropriate when the documentation explicitly states "unspecified viral hepatitis C" or simply "hepatitis C" without further detail.

• Avoid using this code if the documentation specifies acute (B17.1x) or chronic (B18.2) hepatitis C; query the provider for clarification if needed.
• Do not append additional codes for hepatic coma if this code is used, as the description explicitly excludes it.
• Always review the entire medical record for more specific information regarding the type and manifestations of hepatitis C before resorting to this unspecified code.