In simple words: This code represents liver failure with a coma where the exact cause of the liver failure isn't known.

Hepatic failure, unspecified with coma. This condition involves the liver's inability to perform its metabolic functions, leading to a state of prolonged unconsciousness. The underlying cause of the liver failure is not specified.

Example 1: A patient presents with jaundice, ascites, and altered mental status progressing to coma.Laboratory findings indicate elevated liver enzymes and ammonia levels. No history of alcohol abuse, drug use, or viral hepatitis is found. The physician diagnoses hepatic failure, unspecified with coma (K72.91)., A patient with a history of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease develops sudden worsening of liver function and lapses into a coma.After ruling out other known causes of liver failure, the physician assigns code K72.91., A patient with previously normal liver function presents with rapid-onset liver failure and encephalopathy leading to coma. Extensive diagnostic testing fails to identify a specific cause, leading to a diagnosis of hepatic failure, unspecified with coma (K72.91).

Documentation should include evidence of hepatic failure (e.g., abnormal liver function tests, imaging studies, physical exam findings like jaundice and ascites) and the presence of coma. It's crucial to document the diagnostic workup performed to rule out other potential causes of liver failure. If a specific cause is identified later, the code should be updated accordingly.