Hydrops of gallbladder

This code represents an abnormal accumulation of serous fluid within the gallbladder, leading to its distension. This typically occurs due to prolonged obstruction of the cystic duct, preventing bile outflow and concentrating the remaining fluid. The gallbladder becomes enlarged and filled with clear, watery fluid rather than bile.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states "hydrops of gallbladder" or describes a distended, fluid-filled gallbladder due to cystic duct obstruction without evidence of acute inflammation or cholelithiasis. This often presents with right upper quadrant pain, nausea, and a palpable mass.

• Differentiate from acute cholecystitis (K81.0-) or chronic cholecystitis (K81.1), which involve inflammation.
• Do not code if cholelithiasis (K80.-) is the primary diagnosis, unless hydrops is specifically documented as a distinct complication.
• Ensure documentation specifies "hydrops" and not just a distended gallbladder, which could be a normal variant or due to other causes.