Is ICD-10-CM code K20 billable?

No, K20 (Esophagitis) is a non-billable ICD-10-CM code. It must be coded to a more specific subcategory before it can be used for reimbursement.

What chapter does ICD-10-CM code K20 belong to?

K20 belongs to Chapter 11 of the ICD-10-CM tabular list: K00–K95 (Diseases of the Digestive System).

K20Not billable, use a more specific code below

Esophagitis

In Diseases of esophagus, stomach and duodenum (K20-K31), chapter 11: Diseases of the Digestive System

5 billable codes under K20: 2 are an MCC; none map to an HCC.A CC or MCC (major CC) is a secondary diagnosis that raises the MS-DRG payment.

Instructional notes

Excludes1: not coded here, use a different code

erosion of esophagus (K22.1-)
esophagitis with gastro-esophageal reflux disease (K21.0-)
reflux esophagitis (K21.0-)
ulcerative esophagitis (K22.1-)

Excludes2: not included here, code separately if applicable

eosinophilic gastritis or gastroenteritis (K52.81)

Use additional code: add a second code for this, listed after this one

code to identify:
alcohol abuse and dependence (F10.-)

Also applies, from Diseases of esophagus, stomach and duodenum (K20-K31)

These notes sit on K20-K31 and apply to every code under it, including K20.

Excludes2: not included here, code separately if applicable

hiatus hernia (K44.-)

Official coding guidelines

From the ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, FY 2027 (CMS and NCHS). Links open the PDF at the right page.

There are no chapter-specific rules for Chapter 11 yet, so the general rules in Section I.B apply.

Read Section I.C.11 (page 58)

All codes under K20

K20 can't be used on a claim. Pick a billable code below; grey headings group them.

K20 MS-DRGs

As the principal diagnosis, the billable codes under K20 group to MS-DRG 391, 392, 368, 369, or 370 (v44.0). Which one applies depends on procedures performed, secondary diagnoses (CC/MCC), and the patient's age and discharge status.

DRG 391 Esophagitis, Gastroenteritis and Miscellaneous Digestive Disorders with MCC (3 of 5 codes)
DRG 392 Esophagitis, Gastroenteritis and Miscellaneous Digestive Disorders without MCC (3 of 5 codes)
DRG 368 Major Esophageal Disorders with MCC (2 of 5 codes)
DRG 369 Major Esophageal Disorders with CC (2 of 5 codes)
DRG 370 Major Esophageal Disorders without CC/MCC (2 of 5 codes)

About the condition

Plain-language background from MedlinePlus (National Library of Medicine), not coding guidance.

Esophagus Disorders

Esophagus disorders are problems with how your esophagus works. The esophagus is the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. You usually don't notice it unless you swallow something too big, hot, or cold. You might also notice it if something is wrong. When that happens, you might feel pain or have trouble swallowing (dysphagia).

Code history

Valid since FY2016, when ICD-10-CM took effect on October 1, 2015. No changes since.