2008 ICD-9-CM Volume 1 Diagnosis Codes Home > Symptoms, Signs, And Ill-Defined Conditions 780-799 > Symptoms 780-789 > Other Symptoms Involving Abdomen And Pelvis 789.* > 2008 ICD-9-CM Diagnosis 789.5 Ascites  On October 1, 2008 the 2009 ICD-9-CM codes came into effect. Therefore, this code may be out of date. The 2009 version of ICD-9-CM 789.5 can be accessed here. (ah-SYE-teez) Abnormal buildup of fluid in the abdomen. Accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity. The fluid may be serous, hemorrhagic, or the result of tumor metastasis to the peritoneum. -- 2004 Accumulation or retention of free fluid within the peritoneal cavity. 789.5 is a non-specific code that cannot be used to specify a diagnosis View the ICD-9-CM Volume 1 789.* hierarchy ICD9Data's sister site ProcedureCodes.com launches with the 2008/09 CPT® codes - read more on the ICD9Data.com blog. 789.5 also known as: Fluid in peritoneal cavity