ICD-10 Code K29.4 – Chronic atrophic gastritis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K29.4 – Chronic atrophic gastritis
What it is
K29.4 identifies chronic atrophic gastritis, a long-standing inflammation of the stomach lining with thinning or loss of gastric glands. Use it when the record specifically documents atrophic gastritis.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly recorded findings may include chronic gastritis with mucosal atrophy on endoscopy or biopsy, but you should not assume a diagnosis without provider confirmation.
When to use this code
Use K29.4 when the provider documents chronic atrophic gastritis, including pathology or endoscopy reports that clearly support the diagnosis. It is appropriate when the condition is the active reason for evaluation or is listed as a confirmed diagnosis in the chart.
If documentation is vague, such as “gastritis” alone, check the record for whether atrophy is specified. Code the condition only when the type is clearly stated or confirmed by the treating clinician.
Do not use for
Do not use K29.4 for acute gastritis, unspecified gastritis, or nonspecific stomach inflammation. If the note does not confirm atrophy, check documentation.
Coding tip
Look for the exact phrase “atrophic gastritis” in the assessment, pathology, or endoscopy report before assigning K29.4.