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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK51.214

K51.214

Billable

Ulcerative (chronic) proctitis with abscess

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K51.214 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of ulcerative (chronic) proctitis with abscess.

Key Diagnostic Point:

K51.214 refers to ulcerative proctitis with abscess, a subtype of ulcerative colitis that specifically affects the rectum. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as rectal bleeding, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and tenesmus. The condition is characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the rectal mucosa, which can lead to the formation of abscesses due to localized infection. The anatomy involved includes the rectum and surrounding tissues, which can become inflamed and necrotic. Disease progression can vary; some patients may experience acute exacerbations while others may have chronic symptoms. Diagnostic considerations include colonoscopy, which allows for direct visualization of the rectal mucosa and biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Imaging studies may also be utilized to assess for abscess formation. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications such as perforation or systemic infection.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires thorough evaluation and differentiation from other forms of colitis.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve medical management, surgical intervention, or both.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and imaging results are necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to capture the specific nature of the condition.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of ulcerative proctitis types.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding abscess formation.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not support the diagnosis.

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

Colorectal Surgery

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 ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Ulcerative proctitis with abscess has significant clinical implications, including potential complications such as perforation and systemic infection. It affects a considerable portion of the population, particularly young adults, and can lead to increased healthcare utilization due to hospitalizations and surgical interventions. Quality measures focus on timely diagnosis and effective management to improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Ulcerative proctitis with abscess has significant clinical implications, including potential complications such as perforation and systemic infection. It affects a considerable portion of the population, particularly young adults, and can lead to increased healthcare utilization due to hospitalizations and surgical interventions. Quality measures focus on timely diagnosis and effective management to improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the severity of the condition and the complexity of treatment provided. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity for procedures performed. Best practices include ensuring that all clinical findings are well-documented and that coding accurately reflects the patient's condition and treatment plan.

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 K51.214?

K51.214 specifically covers ulcerative proctitis with abscess, which is characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the rectal mucosa accompanied by the formation of abscesses. It is important to differentiate this from other forms of ulcerative colitis that do not involve abscess formation.

When should K51.214 be used instead of related codes?

K51.214 should be used when there is clear evidence of abscess formation in the context of ulcerative proctitis. If abscesses are not present, K51.213 should be selected instead. Accurate documentation of clinical findings is essential for appropriate code selection.

What documentation supports K51.214?

Documentation for K51.214 should include clinical notes detailing symptoms, results from colonoscopy or imaging studies showing abscesses, and any treatment plans. A biopsy report confirming ulcerative proctitis is also beneficial.