ICD-10 Code K22.1 – Ulcer of esophagus (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K22.1 – Ulcer of esophagus
What it is
K22.1 identifies an ulcer in the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach. Use it when documentation clearly states an esophageal ulcer or ulceration.
Clinical signs
Patients may have pain with swallowing, painful swallowing, chest discomfort, or upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K22.1 when the record documents a true ulcer of the esophagus, including endoscopic or specialist confirmation. Code it when the provider identifies ulceration as the diagnosis, not just irritation or reflux symptoms. Check documentation if the cause is not stated.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for gastroesophageal reflux disease, esophagitis, or nonspecific chest pain unless an esophageal ulcer is documented. Do not assign it for suspected ulcer without confirmation.
Coding tip
Look for wording such as “esophageal ulcer,” “ulceration,” or “ulcerative lesion” in the final diagnosis and procedure report.