Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency

This code represents a condition where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes (lipase, amylase, proteases) to properly break down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. This enzyme deficiency leads to maldigestion and malabsorption of nutrients, often resulting in symptoms like steatorrhea, weight loss, and abdominal discomfort.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), regardless of its underlying cause. This is commonly seen in patients with chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, pancreatic cancer, or post-pancreatectomy. Supporting documentation should include clinical findings consistent with EPI and/or results of pancreatic function tests.

• Do not confuse this with pancreatic insufficiency unspecified (K86.89); use this code when the "exocrine" nature is specified.
• Always code the underlying cause of EPI, if known and documented, as a primary diagnosis when applicable, with EPI as a secondary diagnosis.
• Ensure documentation clearly distinguishes between endocrine (diabetes) and exocrine pancreatic dysfunction.