ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code (2025)
Official Description for R18
Ascites
Coding Notes & Guidelines for R18
Includes Notes
fluid in peritoneal cavity
Excludes1: Not Coded Here
- ascites in alcoholic cirrhosis (K70.31)
- ascites in alcoholic hepatitis (K70.11)
- ascites in toxic liver disease with chronic active hepatitis (K71.51)
Code First
- malignancy, such as:
- malignant neoplasm of ovary (C56.-)
- secondary malignant neoplasm of retroperitoneum and peritoneum (C78.6)
Inclusion Terms
- Ascites NOS
- Peritoneal effusion (chronic)
Child Codes (More Specific Codes for R18):
About ICD-10-CM Code R18 (Ascites)
ICD-10-CM code R18 is a billable or specific ICD-10-CM code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes. The 2025 edition of ICD-10-CM R18 became effective on October 1, 2024.
This page provides detailed information about R18 - Ascites. It includes common terminology, coding guidelines such as "Includes," "Excludes1," and "Excludes2" notes, and information on required 7th characters. Utilizing this information correctly is essential for accurate medical coding and claims submission for conditions like Ascites.