Unspecified viral hepatitis B without hepatic coma

This code signifies a diagnosis of viral hepatitis B where the specific type (e.g., acute, chronic) is not documented, and there is no associated hepatic coma. It indicates the presence of hepatitis B infection without further clinical detail regarding its stage or severity.

Use this code when the medical record confirms a diagnosis of hepatitis B, but the provider has not specified whether it is acute or chronic, nor is there any mention of hepatic coma. This code is appropriate when documentation simply states "viral hepatitis B" without additional clarifying details.

• Avoid using this code if the documentation specifies acute or chronic hepatitis B; instead, select a more specific code from the B16 or B18 series.
• Do not use this code if hepatic coma is documented; refer to codes like B16.0 or B16.2.
• Query the provider for clarification on the acuity and presence of hepatic coma if possible, to allow for more specific coding.