Chronic or unspecified duodenal ulcer with hemorrhage
ICD-10 K26.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic or unspecified duodenal ulcer with hemorrhage.
Chronic or unspecified duodenal ulcer with hemorrhage is a condition characterized by the presence of an ulcer in the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine. This ulceration can lead to significant complications, including gastrointestinal bleeding. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, and signs of anemia due to blood loss. The anatomy involved includes the duodenum, which plays a crucial role in digestion by receiving chyme from the stomach and bile from the liver. Disease progression can vary; chronic ulcers may persist for months or years, often exacerbated by factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, NSAID use, or excessive alcohol consumption. Diagnostic considerations include endoscopy for direct visualization and biopsy, as well as imaging studies to assess for complications like perforation or obstruction. Laboratory tests may reveal anemia or signs of infection, aiding in the comprehensive assessment of the patient’s condition.
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
K26.4 covers chronic duodenal ulcers that have resulted in hemorrhage. This includes ulcers that may not have a clear etiology or those that are persistent and recurrent, leading to bleeding complications.
K26.4 should be used when the duodenal ulcer is chronic or unspecified and has resulted in hemorrhage. It is important to differentiate from acute ulcers or those without complications to ensure accurate coding.
Documentation should include clinical findings, results from endoscopic evaluations, treatment plans, and any evidence of hemorrhage, such as lab results indicating anemia or imaging studies showing bleeding.
