K66: Other disorders of peritoneum

K66 refers to Other disorders of peritoneum, a group of conditions affecting the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity) or retroperitoneal space. These disorders can be life-threatening and often present as surgical emergencies requiring rapid diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms

• Severe abdominal pain – Especially diffuse or rebound tenderness in peritonitis (K65)
• Fever and chills – Indicate underlying infection or inflammation
• Abdominal distension – Common with retroperitoneal or peritoneal pathology
• Nausea and vomiting – Often present in acute peritoneal conditions
• Signs of sepsis – Hypotension, tachycardia, and confusion in severe cases

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Other disorders of peritoneum is made through clinical examination, peritoneal fluid analysis, blood cultures, abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or exploratory surgery. Prompt diagnosis is essential to prevent systemic spread of infection or complications.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code K66 is used by emergency physicians, surgeons, and radiologists. It supports documentation for surgical intervention (e.g., laparotomy), antibiotic treatment, and critical care coding in hospitals or urgent care settings.

Related Codes

• K65 – Peritonitis
• K67 – Disorders of peritoneum in infectious diseases classified elsewhere
• K68 – Disorders of retroperitoneum

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code K66?
A: It refers to Other disorders of peritoneum, involving acute or chronic inflammation or disorders of the peritoneal or retroperitoneal spaces.

Q2: Is peritonitis (K65) always infectious?
A: Most often yes, but it can also result from chemical irritation (e.g., bile, gastric contents) or secondary to organ rupture.

Q3: What is included under K66?
A: K66 includes adhesions, encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis, or spontaneous hemoperitoneum not due to trauma.

Q4: How is K67 different?
A: K67 is used when peritoneal disorders are secondary to infections like tuberculosis or systemic sepsis already classified elsewhere.

Q5: Who treats these conditions?
A: General and trauma surgeons, critical care specialists, infectious disease experts, and radiologists.

Conclusion

ICD10 code K66 ensures proper classification and care planning for Other disorders of peritoneum, helping guide emergent surgical decisions, infection control measures, and accurate clinical reporting.