Indeterminate colitis
ICD-10 K52.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of indeterminate colitis.
Indeterminate colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by inflammation of the colon that does not fit the specific criteria for either Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea (which may be bloody), weight loss, and fatigue. The anatomy involved primarily includes the colon, but the inflammation can also affect surrounding tissues. Disease progression can vary significantly among individuals; some may experience intermittent flares while others may have a more chronic course. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies, as well as endoscopic evaluation with biopsy to rule out other conditions. The indeterminate nature of this colitis type often complicates diagnosis, as it requires exclusion of other specific IBD types and may necessitate ongoing monitoring and reassessment over time.
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
K52.3 covers indeterminate colitis, which includes cases of colitis that cannot be definitively classified as either Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. It may also encompass atypical presentations of IBD.
K52.3 should be used when the clinical presentation suggests inflammatory bowel disease, but the specific type cannot be determined after thorough evaluation. It is crucial to document the rationale for using this code.
Documentation should include a comprehensive clinical history, results from laboratory tests, imaging studies, and endoscopic findings that support the diagnosis of indeterminate colitis, along with any treatments attempted.
