Ulcerative colitis
Chapter 11:Diseases of the digestive system
ICD-10 K51 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis.
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the colonic mucosa. It primarily affects the rectum and colon, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea (often bloody), and urgency to defecate. The disease can vary in severity and extent, ranging from mild, localized inflammation to extensive colonic involvement. The pathophysiology of UC involves an inappropriate immune response to intestinal microbiota, resulting in mucosal damage. Disease progression may lead to complications such as toxic megacolon, perforation, and increased risk of colorectal cancer. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, endoscopic examination, and histological analysis of biopsy samples. Laboratory tests may also be utilized to rule out other conditions and assess inflammation levels. Management of UC often includes medications such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, and immunomodulators, with surgical options considered for refractory cases or complications.
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 encompasses various forms of ulcerative colitis, including left-sided colitis, pancolitis, and proctitis. It is essential to specify the type based on the extent of colonic involvement.
K51 should be used when the patient is diagnosed with ulcerative colitis specifically, rather than other forms of colitis such as infectious or ischemic colitis, which are coded differently.
Documentation should include clinical findings, endoscopic reports, biopsy results, and treatment plans. Detailed notes on symptomatology and response to therapy are crucial for accurate coding.
