Alcohol-induced chronic pancreatitis

This code signifies a persistent inflammatory condition of the pancreas directly caused by chronic alcohol consumption. It involves irreversible damage to the pancreatic tissue, leading to impaired exocrine and endocrine function. Patients typically present with recurrent abdominal pain, malabsorption, and potentially diabetes mellitus.

Apply this code when documentation clearly links chronic pancreatitis to a history of prolonged and excessive alcohol intake. This diagnosis is supported by imaging studies showing pancreatic calcifications, ductal changes, or atrophy, along with clinical signs and symptoms of chronic pancreatitis in an alcoholic patient.

• Differentiate carefully from acute alcohol-induced pancreatitis; this code is for the chronic, irreversible form.
• Ensure the medical record explicitly states "alcohol-induced" or provides a strong causal link between alcohol use and the chronic pancreatitis.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the main reason for the encounter, followed by codes for any associated complications like pancreatic insufficiency or diabetes.