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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK52.831

K52.831

Billable

Collagenous colitis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K52.831 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of collagenous colitis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Collagenous colitis is a type of microscopic colitis characterized by chronic, non-bacterial diarrhea and inflammation of the colon. It primarily affects the mucosal layer of the colon, where collagen deposition occurs, leading to symptoms such as watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss. The exact etiology remains unclear, but it is believed to involve immune-mediated mechanisms, dietary factors, and possibly genetic predispositions. The disease progression can vary; some patients may experience intermittent symptoms, while others may have persistent diarrhea. Diagnosis typically involves a colonoscopy with biopsy to confirm the presence of collagenous deposits in the colonic mucosa. Patients may also undergo stool tests to rule out infections or other gastrointestinal disorders. Treatment often includes dietary modifications, anti-diarrheal medications, and in some cases, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. 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 biopsy for confirmation
  • Treatment complexity: May involve multiple therapeutic approaches
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical history and symptom tracking
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate from other colitis types

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with other types of colitis
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical history or lack of biopsy results
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not support the diagnosis

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

Pathology

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

Collagenous colitis, while relatively rare, can significantly impact patient quality of life due to chronic diarrhea and associated symptoms. Understanding its epidemiology is crucial, as it is more prevalent in older adults, particularly women. Effective management can reduce healthcare utilization, including hospital visits and procedures, thereby improving overall population health outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Collagenous colitis, while relatively rare, can significantly impact patient quality of life due to chronic diarrhea and associated symptoms. Understanding its epidemiology is crucial, as it is more prevalent in older adults, particularly women. Effective management can reduce healthcare utilization, including hospital visits and procedures, thereby improving overall population health outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by biopsy results and that any treatments provided are documented. Common denials may occur if the documentation does not clearly establish the diagnosis of collagenous colitis or if the treatment does not align with the diagnosis. Best practices include maintaining thorough clinical notes and ensuring that all relevant tests and procedures are coded accurately.

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 K52.831?

K52.831 specifically covers collagenous colitis, which is characterized by chronic diarrhea and histological findings of collagen deposition in the colon. It is distinct from other forms of colitis, such as lymphocytic colitis or ulcerative colitis.

When should K52.831 be used instead of related codes?

K52.831 should be used when a patient presents with symptoms consistent with collagenous colitis, confirmed by biopsy showing collagenous deposits. It should not be used for other types of colitis without specific histological findings.

What documentation supports K52.831?

Documentation for K52.831 should include a detailed clinical history, symptom description, results of colonoscopy and biopsy, and any treatments attempted. Clear evidence of collagen deposition in the colonic mucosa is essential for accurate coding.