ICD-10 Code K51.01 – Ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis with complications (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K51.01 – Ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis with complications
What it is
This code identifies ulcerative colitis affecting the entire colon, with a documented complication. Use it when the record clearly states pancolitis and also notes a complication tied to the disease.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings in ulcerative colitis include chronic bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, urgency, and inflammatory changes extending through the colon.
When to use this code
Use K51.01 when the provider documents ulcerative pancolitis and specifies a complication, such as a disease-related complication that supports the “with complications” category. You should confirm the colon involvement is pan-colonic and not limited to a segment. If the complication is not named clearly, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for ulcerative colitis without a documented complication, or when the disease is limited to the rectum, sigmoid, or left side only. Check documentation if the extent or complication is unclear.
Coding tip
Match both elements in the note: pancolitis plus a documented complication; otherwise, select the more specific uncomplicated ulcerative colitis code.