ICD-10 Coding for Microscopic Colitis(K52.831, K52.832, K52.839)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Microscopic Colitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Microscopic Colitis
K52.83-K52.839Primary Range
Microscopic colitis and its subtypes
This range includes all specific and unspecified codes for microscopic colitis.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| K52.831 | Collagenous colitis | Use when biopsy confirms collagenous colitis. |
|
| K52.832 | Lymphocytic colitis | Use when biopsy confirms lymphocytic colitis. |
|
| K52.839 | Microscopic colitis, unspecified | Use only when biopsy confirms MC but does not specify subtype. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for microscopic colitis
Essential facts and insights about Microscopic Colitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for microscopic colitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Biopsy confirms collagenous colitis.
Applicable To
- Collagenous colitis confirmed by biopsy
Excludes
- Lymphocytic colitis (K52.832)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Biopsy showing thickened subepithelial collagen band (≥10μm)
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of using unspecified code if biopsy results are not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure biopsy results are documented to support specific coding.
K52.832 - Lymphocytic colitis
Use when biopsy confirms lymphocytic colitis.
Applicable To
- Lymphocytic colitis confirmed by biopsy
Excludes
- Collagenous colitis (K52.831)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Biopsy showing intraepithelial lymphocytes ≥20/100 epithelial cells
Coding Notes
Ensure biopsy results are documented to support specific coding.
K52.839 - Microscopic colitis, unspecified
Use only when biopsy confirms MC but does not specify subtype.
Applicable To
- Microscopic colitis not otherwise specified
Excludes
- Collagenous colitis (K52.831)
- Lymphocytic colitis (K52.832)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Diagnosis of microscopic colitis without specific subtype identified
Coding Notes
Avoid using unless subtype cannot be determined.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Diarrhea, unspecified
R19.7Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Microscopic Colitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K52.831.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect diagnosis and treatment., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit and non-compliance., Financial: Potential for claim denials and reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure biopsy results are included in documentation., Verify subtype is specified in records.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Increased risk of audit and compliance issues., Data Quality: Decreases data accuracy and quality.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific codes K52.831 or K52.832 if biopsy results are available.
Impact
High audit risk if unspecified codes are used without justification.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure biopsy results are documented and specific codes are used.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Microscopic Colitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Microscopic Colitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Microscopic Colitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic diarrhea with biopsy confirmation
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Biopsy results
- Symptoms duration
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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