ICD-10 Code K51.811 – Other ulcerative colitis with rectal bleeding (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K51.811 – Other ulcerative colitis with rectal bleeding
What it is
K51.811 identifies ulcerative colitis that is not otherwise specified by subtype and is accompanied by rectal bleeding. Use it when the record documents both ulcerative colitis and bleeding from the rectum.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include bloody stools, rectal bleeding, and symptoms of active colitis such as abdominal pain or urgency. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the clinician documents ulcerative colitis with rectal bleeding and does not specify a more exact ulcerative colitis category. It may apply in outpatient, inpatient, or follow-up notes when bleeding is linked to the colitis.
If the record names a different ulcerative colitis subtype, code that more specific option instead. Check documentation if the bleeding source is unclear or if another diagnosis explains the rectal bleeding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for Crohn disease, infectious colitis, hemorrhoids, or rectal bleeding without documented ulcerative colitis. Check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm that both ulcerative colitis and rectal bleeding are documented together before assigning K51.811.