Lactose intolerance, unspecified

This code represents the inability to properly digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products, when the specific type or cause of the intolerance is not documented. It results from a deficiency of the lactase enzyme in the small intestine, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms upon lactose consumption.

Use this code when documentation indicates lactose intolerance but does not specify if it is congenital, primary, secondary, or due to another underlying condition. This is appropriate when the provider simply states "lactose intolerance" without further elaboration on its etiology.

• Only use this code when the type of lactose intolerance is truly unspecified in the medical record.
• Review documentation carefully for any mention of congenital, primary, or secondary lactose intolerance, which would necessitate a more specific code.
• Do not confuse with milk allergy (K20.0), which is an immune response, not an enzyme deficiency.