ICD-10 Code K52.83 – Microscopic colitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K52.83 – Microscopic colitis
What it is
K52.83 identifies microscopic colitis, a cause of chronic watery diarrhea that is usually diagnosed by colon biopsy rather than visible colon changes. You use it when documentation names microscopic colitis specifically.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include persistent watery diarrhea, urgency, and sometimes abdominal discomfort. Colonoscopy may appear normal; histology confirms the diagnosis. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K52.83 when the provider documents microscopic colitis, including collagenous or lymphocytic colitis if recorded under this diagnosis. It fits confirmed cases based on biopsy or clear specialist documentation. If the note only says chronic diarrhea, check documentation before coding this specific condition.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific diarrhea, infectious colitis, or inflammatory bowel disease without documentation of microscopic colitis. Check documentation if the diagnosis is uncertain.
Coding tip
Code K52.83 only when the record supports microscopic colitis, not just a normal colonoscopy with diarrhea.