Sequelae of viral hepatitis

This code signifies the long-term, residual effects or complications arising from a past viral hepatitis infection. It indicates that the patient is no longer actively infected with viral hepatitis, but is experiencing health problems directly attributable to that prior infection.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a current condition is a direct consequence of a resolved viral hepatitis. Examples include post-hepatitis cirrhosis, chronic liver failure due to past hepatitis, or other persistent sequelae. The documentation should explicitly link the current condition to a prior viral hepatitis.

• Do not use this code for active viral hepatitis infections; instead, use the appropriate B15-B19 codes.
• Always code the specific sequela (e.g., cirrhosis, liver failure) first, followed by this code to indicate its etiology.
• Ensure the medical record clearly establishes a causal link between the past viral hepatitis and the current sequela.