Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)

This code identifies a severe form of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) characterized by liver inflammation and damage, in addition to fat accumulation. It can progress to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver failure, distinguishing it from simple hepatic steatosis.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). This diagnosis is typically confirmed by liver biopsy, but can also be clinically inferred based on imaging, laboratory findings, and exclusion of other liver diseases.

• Do not use this code for simple hepatic steatosis without inflammation (K76.0).
• Ensure documentation clearly differentiates NASH from alcoholic steatohepatitis (K70.1-).
• Code any associated complications, such as cirrhosis (K74.-) or hepatocellular carcinoma (C22.0), in addition to NASH.