Acute duodenal ulcer with hemorrhage
ICD-10 K26.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute duodenal ulcer with hemorrhage.
Acute duodenal ulcer with hemorrhage is a serious gastrointestinal condition characterized by a breach in the duodenal mucosa that extends through the muscularis layer, leading to bleeding. The duodenum, the first part of the small intestine, plays a crucial role in digestion, receiving chyme from the stomach and bile from the liver. Clinical presentation often includes severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and signs of gastrointestinal bleeding such as hematemesis or melena. Disease progression can lead to complications such as perforation, peritonitis, or chronic ulceration if not promptly treated. Diagnostic considerations include endoscopy, which allows for direct visualization of the ulcer and assessment of bleeding, as well as imaging studies and laboratory tests to evaluate hemoglobin levels and overall health status. Timely diagnosis and management are essential to prevent severe complications and ensure patient safety.
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
K26.0 specifically covers acute duodenal ulcers that are actively bleeding. This includes ulcers that have resulted in hematemesis or melena, indicating significant hemorrhage.
K26.0 should be used when there is clear evidence of an acute duodenal ulcer accompanied by hemorrhage. If the ulcer is chronic or not bleeding, other codes such as K26.9 (duodenal ulcer, unspecified) may be more appropriate.
Documentation should include clinical findings from endoscopy, evidence of bleeding (e.g., lab results showing anemia), and detailed notes on the patient's symptoms and treatment plan.
