Ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis with unspecified complications
ICD-10 K51.019 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis with unspecified complications.
Ulcerative pancolitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the colonic mucosa, affecting the entire colon (pancolitis). Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea (often bloody), urgency, and weight loss. The anatomy involved includes the entire colon, which can lead to complications such as toxic megacolon, perforation, and increased risk of colorectal cancer over time. Disease progression can vary, with periods of exacerbation and remission. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, stool studies, endoscopy with biopsy, and imaging studies to rule out other conditions. The unspecified complications in K51.019 indicate that while the patient has chronic ulcerative pancolitis, specific complications have not been documented or identified, necessitating careful monitoring and management to prevent potential severe outcomes.
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
K51.019 covers chronic ulcerative pancolitis without specified complications. It includes patients experiencing symptoms of pancolitis but does not detail any specific complications such as toxic megacolon or colorectal cancer.
K51.019 should be used when a patient has chronic ulcerative pancolitis affecting the entire colon without documented complications. If complications are present, more specific codes should be utilized.
Documentation should include a confirmed diagnosis of ulcerative pancolitis through endoscopic findings, biopsy results, and a comprehensive assessment of the patient's symptoms and medical history.
