Barrett's esophagus without dysplasia
ICD-10 K22.70 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of barrett's esophagus without dysplasia.
Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which the normal squamous cells lining the esophagus are replaced by columnar cells, a process known as intestinal metaplasia. This change is often a result of chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and damage. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing, although some may be asymptomatic. The anatomy involved includes the lower esophagus, where the transition from squamous to columnar epithelium occurs. Disease progression can lead to dysplasia, which is a precancerous condition, but K22.70 specifically refers to Barrett's esophagus without dysplasia, indicating that while the cellular changes are present, they have not progressed to a more severe form. Diagnostic considerations typically involve endoscopy and biopsy to confirm the presence of Barrett's esophagus and rule out dysplasia or malignancy. Regular monitoring is essential due to the increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma associated with Barrett's esophagus.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
K22.70 covers Barrett's esophagus without dysplasia, characterized by intestinal metaplasia of the esophageal lining without any precancerous cellular changes.
K22.70 should be used when the diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus is confirmed without any evidence of dysplasia, differentiating it from codes that indicate dysplastic changes.
Documentation must include endoscopic findings, biopsy results confirming intestinal metaplasia, and a clear statement that dysplasia is absent.
