Other chronic pancreatitis

This code signifies a persistent inflammatory condition of the pancreas that does not fit the criteria for alcoholic chronic pancreatitis. It involves irreversible morphological changes, often leading to progressive loss of exocrine and endocrine function. Patients typically experience recurrent abdominal pain, malabsorption, and sometimes diabetes.

Use this code for documented cases of chronic pancreatitis where the etiology is not specified as alcohol-related, or when other specific causes (e.g., hereditary, autoimmune, obstructive) are not explicitly identified or coded separately. This code is appropriate when the physician's documentation clearly states "chronic pancreatitis, other" or similar non-specific chronic forms.

• Ensure the documentation clearly distinguishes chronic pancreatitis from acute pancreatitis; do not use for acute exacerbations of chronic pancreatitis unless the chronic condition is also documented.
• Always look for more specific codes within the K86 category (e.g., K86.0 for alcoholic chronic pancreatitis) before defaulting to this code.
• Query the provider for clarification if the etiology of chronic pancreatitis is unclear, as more specific codes may exist.