ICD-10-CM Billable Code

K51.014

Ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis with abscess

Clinical Classification Guidelines

Medical Intelligence & Overview

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine (colon). When this inflammation extends throughout the entire colon, it is referred to as pancolitis. The presence of abscesses—pockets of pus—in the colon indicates a complication of the disease, leading to a more severe form known as ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis with abscess. This condition involves ongoing inflammation with complication due to abscess formation, requiring careful management.

Causes & Symptoms

Clinical Causes: Genetic factors that increase susceptibility Immune system dysfunction, where the immune system attacks healthy colon tissue Environmental influences such as diet, stress, and smoking habits Infections that may trigger or exacerbate inflammatory responses Disruption in gut microbiota, influencing immune regulation

Key Symptoms: Persistent diarrhea, often with blood or pus Abdominal pain and cramping Urgency to have bowel movements Fatigue and general malaise Weight loss and decreased appetite Fever in cases of abscess formation Tenderness in the lower abdomen Signs of anemia, such as pallor or weakness, due to chronic blood loss

Diagnostic & Treatment

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a combination of methods to assess the extent of colon inflammation and the presence of abscesses. These include:

Treatment Protocols: Management of ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis with abscess involves medical therapy aimed at reducing inflammation, controlling symptoms, and preventing complications. Treatment options include:

Reimbursement claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015 require the use of ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical Advice & FAQs

Billing Guidance

Is K51.014 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, K51.014 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.

Documentation

How do I report K51.014?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis with abscess and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.

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