Ulcerative colitis, unspecified, without complications
ICD-10 K51.90 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, unspecified, without complications.
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the colonic mucosa. The condition primarily affects the rectum and can extend proximally to involve the entire colon. Patients typically present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea (often bloody), urgency to defecate, and weight loss. The disease can vary in severity and may lead to complications such as colonic perforation or toxic megacolon, although K51.90 specifically denotes cases without complications. The pathophysiology involves an inappropriate immune response to intestinal microbiota, leading to chronic inflammation. Diagnosis is often confirmed through colonoscopy and histological examination of biopsy samples. Imaging studies may also be utilized to assess the extent of the disease. Regular monitoring is crucial due to the increased risk of colorectal cancer associated with long-standing ulcerative colitis. Treatment typically involves anti-inflammatory medications, immunosuppressants, and in some cases, surgical intervention. Understanding the clinical presentation and progression of ulcerative colitis is essential for effective management and coding.
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
K51.90 covers unspecified ulcerative colitis without complications. It includes cases where the extent of the disease is not clearly defined, and there are no acute complications such as perforation or severe bleeding.
K51.90 should be used when the diagnosis of ulcerative colitis is confirmed but lacks specific details regarding the extent of the disease or when there are no complications present. It is important to differentiate it from codes that specify complications or other forms of inflammatory bowel disease.
Documentation should include a confirmed diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, clinical symptoms, results from colonoscopy and biopsy, and a treatment plan. It is essential to note the absence of complications to justify the use of K51.90.
