Ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis without complications
ICD-10 K51.00 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis without complications.
Ulcerative pancolitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the colonic mucosa, affecting the entire colon. Patients typically present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea (often bloody), urgency, and weight loss. The disease can lead to significant complications, including colonic perforation, toxic megacolon, and increased risk of colorectal cancer. The anatomy involved includes the entire colon, from the cecum to the rectum, with the inflammation primarily affecting the mucosal layer. Disease progression can vary, with periods of exacerbation and remission. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical history, physical examination, laboratory tests (such as complete blood count and inflammatory markers), and imaging studies like colonoscopy with biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the disease. Regular monitoring is essential to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
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
K51.00 covers ulcerative pancolitis, which is defined by chronic inflammation and ulceration of the entire colon. It is characterized by symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and urgency. It is crucial to differentiate it from other forms of ulcerative colitis, such as left-sided colitis and proctitis.
K51.00 should be used when the clinical presentation indicates involvement of the entire colon without complications. If the disease is limited to the rectum or left side of the colon, codes K51.01 or K51.02 should be used respectively.
Documentation should include a detailed patient history, physical examination findings, laboratory results, and imaging studies. Colonoscopy reports with biopsy results confirming the diagnosis of ulcerative pancolitis are essential for supporting the use of K51.00.
