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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK29.40

K29.40

Billable

Chronic atrophic gastritis without bleeding

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K29.40 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic atrophic gastritis without bleeding.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chronic atrophic gastritis without bleeding is a long-term inflammatory condition affecting the gastric mucosa, characterized by the loss of gastric glandular cells and replacement with intestinal-type epithelium. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, nausea, and dyspepsia, although some may remain asymptomatic. The condition is often associated with autoimmune disorders, chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori, or prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The anatomy involved includes the stomach, particularly the gastric mucosa, which undergoes atrophy leading to decreased acid production and impaired digestion. Disease progression can lead to complications such as gastric ulcers or even gastric cancer if left untreated. Diagnostic considerations include endoscopy with biopsy to confirm atrophic changes and rule out malignancy, along with serological tests for H. pylori and autoimmune markers. Regular monitoring and management are essential to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires endoscopic evaluation and histological confirmation.
  • Treatment complexity: Management may involve addressing underlying causes, such as H. pylori eradication or dietary modifications.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical history and diagnostic findings must be documented.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate from other gastritis types.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with acute gastritis codes.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical history or lack of biopsy results.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not support chronicity or atrophy.

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

Primary Care

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

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Chronic atrophic gastritis has significant clinical implications, as it can lead to malabsorption, nutritional deficiencies, and an increased risk of gastric cancer. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is crucial for population health, as it affects diverse demographics, particularly those with autoimmune disorders or chronic H. pylori infections. Quality measures related to the management of gastritis can improve healthcare utilization patterns, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment to enhance patient outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Chronic atrophic gastritis has significant clinical implications, as it can lead to malabsorption, nutritional deficiencies, and an increased risk of gastric cancer. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is crucial for population health, as it affects diverse demographics, particularly those with autoimmune disorders or chronic H. pylori infections. Quality measures related to the management of gastritis can improve healthcare utilization patterns, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment to enhance patient outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include verifying coverage for diagnostic procedures such as endoscopy and ensuring that the medical necessity is well-documented to avoid denials. Common billing challenges may arise from insufficient documentation or misclassification of gastritis types, which can lead to claim denials. Adhering to coding best practices and maintaining thorough documentation can help mitigate these risks.

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 K29.40?

K29.40 specifically covers chronic atrophic gastritis without any associated bleeding. It is characterized by chronic inflammation and atrophy of the gastric mucosa, which can be due to various etiologies including autoimmune conditions and chronic infections.

When should K29.40 be used instead of related codes?

K29.40 should be used when there is a confirmed diagnosis of chronic atrophic gastritis without any evidence of bleeding. If bleeding is present, K29.41 should be utilized. Accurate diagnosis through endoscopy and biopsy is crucial for appropriate code selection.

What documentation supports K29.40?

Documentation for K29.40 should include a detailed clinical history, results from endoscopic examinations, biopsy findings indicating atrophy, and any relevant laboratory tests. It is essential to document the absence of bleeding to justify the use of this specific code.