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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK52.83

K52.83

Non-billable

Microscopic colitis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K52.83 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of microscopic colitis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Microscopic colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition of the colon characterized by diarrhea that is often watery and can be accompanied by abdominal pain. The condition is classified into two main types: collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis, both of which are diagnosed through histological examination of colonic biopsies. The anatomy involved includes the colon, where inflammation occurs at the microscopic level, leading to disruption of normal mucosal architecture. Disease progression can vary; some patients may experience intermittent symptoms, while others may have persistent diarrhea that significantly impacts their quality of life. Diagnostic considerations include ruling out other causes of diarrhea, such as infections or inflammatory bowel disease, and confirming the diagnosis through colonoscopy and biopsy. Treatment typically involves dietary modifications, anti-diarrheal medications, and in some cases, corticosteroids or immunosuppressive agents. Regular follow-up is essential to monitor symptoms and adjust treatment as necessary.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires histological confirmation and differentiation from other gastrointestinal disorders.
  • Treatment complexity: Management may involve multiple therapeutic approaches and monitoring.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and biopsy results are essential for accurate coding.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate between types of microscopic colitis.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of the type of microscopic colitis.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete biopsy reports or lack of detailed clinical history.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to insufficient evidence of medical necessity.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Primary medical specialty: 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

Secondary specialty: Internal Medicine

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

Microscopic colitis has significant clinical implications, affecting patient quality of life due to chronic diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. It is increasingly recognized in the population, leading to higher healthcare utilization, including diagnostic procedures and treatments. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition can help healthcare providers implement effective management strategies and improve patient outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Microscopic colitis has significant clinical implications, affecting patient quality of life due to chronic diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. It is increasingly recognized in the population, leading to higher healthcare utilization, including diagnostic procedures and treatments. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition can help healthcare providers implement effective management strategies and improve patient outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the medical necessity for colonoscopy and biopsy is clearly documented. Common denials may arise from insufficient evidence of the condition or lack of detailed clinical notes. Best practices include maintaining thorough records of patient symptoms, treatment responses, and follow-up care to substantiate claims and reduce audit 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 K52.83?

K52.83 covers microscopic colitis, which includes both collagenous colitis and lymphocytic colitis. These conditions are characterized by chronic diarrhea and require histological confirmation for diagnosis.

When should K52.83 be used instead of related codes?

K52.83 should be used when a patient presents with symptoms consistent with microscopic colitis but does not fit the specific criteria for collagenous or lymphocytic colitis, or when the type is unspecified.

What documentation supports K52.83?

Documentation should include a thorough clinical history, symptom description, results from colonoscopy and biopsy, and any previous treatments attempted. Detailed notes on the patient's response to treatment are also critical.