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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 11: Diseases of the digestive systemK25

K25

Non-billable

Gastric ulcer

Chapter 11:Diseases of the digestive system

BILLABLE STATUSNo
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 K25 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of gastric ulcer.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Gastric ulcers, classified under ICD-10 code K25, are defined as mucosal lesions in the stomach that penetrate the muscularis mucosa. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, gastrointestinal bleeding. The anatomy involved primarily includes the gastric mucosa, which can be affected by various factors including Helicobacter pylori infection, prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and excessive alcohol consumption. Disease progression can lead to complications such as perforation, penetration into adjacent organs, and gastric outlet obstruction. Diagnostic considerations involve endoscopy, which allows for direct visualization of the ulcer, and biopsy to rule out malignancy. Additionally, imaging studies may be utilized to assess for complications. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment, which may include medications such as proton pump inhibitors, antibiotics for H. pylori eradication, and lifestyle modifications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires endoscopic evaluation and potential biopsy.
  • Treatment complexity: Involves pharmacological management and lifestyle changes.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and diagnostic imaging reports are essential.
  • Coding specificity: Requires differentiation between acute and chronic ulcers, as well as complications.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of ulcer type or failure to document complications.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes or lack of supporting imaging studies.
  • Billing challenges: Denials may occur if documentation does not clearly support the diagnosis or treatment provided.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Gastroenterology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Internal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Gastric ulcers significantly impact population health, contributing to morbidity and healthcare utilization. They are prevalent in various demographics, particularly among older adults and those with risk factors such as NSAID use or H. pylori infection. Quality measures related to gastric ulcer management focus on appropriate diagnosis, treatment adherence, and monitoring for complications. Understanding the epidemiology of gastric ulcers aids in developing preventive strategies and improving patient outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Gastric ulcers significantly impact population health, contributing to morbidity and healthcare utilization. They are prevalent in various demographics, particularly among older adults and those with risk factors such as NSAID use or H. pylori infection. Quality measures related to gastric ulcer management focus on appropriate diagnosis, treatment adherence, and monitoring for complications. Understanding the epidemiology of gastric ulcers aids in developing preventive strategies and improving patient outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the patient's insurance policy and the necessity of the procedures performed. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to meet medical necessity criteria. Best practices include ensuring that all clinical notes are complete, that the rationale for procedures is clearly stated, and that coding reflects the specificity of the diagnosis and any complications encountered during treatment.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for K00-K99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for K00-K99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by K25?

K25 covers gastric ulcers, which can be classified further into acute or chronic ulcers. It also includes ulcers that may be associated with complications such as hemorrhage or perforation.

When should K25 be used instead of related codes?

K25 should be used when the diagnosis specifically indicates a gastric ulcer, as opposed to K26 for duodenal ulcers or K27 for unspecified peptic ulcers. Accurate documentation of the ulcer's location and any complications is essential for correct code selection.

What documentation supports K25?

Documentation should include clinical findings from patient history, physical examination, endoscopic reports, and any imaging studies that confirm the presence of a gastric ulcer. Treatment plans and follow-up notes are also important.