Other ulcerative colitis without complications
ICD-10 K51.80 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other ulcerative colitis without complications.
K51.80 refers to 'Other ulcerative colitis without complications,' a subtype of ulcerative colitis (UC), which is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease primarily affecting the colon and rectum. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea (often bloody), urgency to defecate, and weight loss. The anatomy involved includes the large intestine, particularly the mucosal layer, which becomes inflamed and ulcerated. Disease progression can vary, with some patients experiencing intermittent flare-ups and periods of remission. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, stool studies, and endoscopic evaluation, such as colonoscopy, which allows for direct visualization and biopsy of the colonic mucosa. The absence of complications, such as severe bleeding or perforation, distinguishes this code from other forms of ulcerative colitis, necessitating careful documentation of the patient's clinical status and any prior treatments.
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
K51.80 covers cases of ulcerative colitis that do not present with complications such as toxic megacolon, perforation, or severe hemorrhage. It includes patients with mild to moderate symptoms that do not escalate to critical conditions.
K51.80 should be used when the patient has a confirmed diagnosis of ulcerative colitis without any complications. If complications are present, such as severe bleeding or perforation, then codes like K51.81 should be utilized.
Documentation should include a detailed clinical history, results from diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy, and any treatment plans. Clear notes indicating the absence of complications are crucial for supporting the use of K51.80.