ICD-10 Code K21.9 – Gastro-esophageal reflux disease without esophagitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K21.9 – Gastro-esophageal reflux disease without esophagitis
What it is
K21.9 identifies gastro-esophageal reflux disease without inflammation of the esophagus. Use it when reflux symptoms are documented, but esophagitis is not reported.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include heartburn, acid regurgitation, and sour taste after meals or when lying down. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K21.9 when the provider documents GERD, reflux disease, or acid reflux and does not specify esophagitis. It also fits follow-up visits for established GERD when no complication is noted. If the record mentions erosive esophagitis, use the more specific code instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for GERD with esophagitis or other documented esophageal injury. Check documentation if the note only mentions nonspecific upper gastrointestinal symptoms without a GERD diagnosis.
Coding tip
Assign K21.9 only when the clinician clearly documents reflux disease and does not identify esophagitis.