ICD-10 Code K21.00 – Gastro-esophageal reflux disease with esophagitis, without bleeding (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K21.00 – Gastro-esophageal reflux disease with esophagitis, without bleeding
What it is
This code identifies gastroesophageal reflux disease with inflammation of the esophagus, but no bleeding is documented. Use it when reflux is confirmed and the record states esophagitis without hemorrhage.
Clinical signs
Patients may report heartburn, acid regurgitation, chest discomfort, or swallowing pain. Endoscopy or other documentation may show esophageal inflammation; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K21.00 when the provider documents GERD and specifies esophagitis without bleeding. It fits encounters where reflux-related esophageal inflammation is the active diagnosis, including follow-up visits or evaluation of persistent symptoms. If bleeding is documented, choose a different code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for uncomplicated GERD without esophagitis. Do not use it when esophageal bleeding is present or when documentation only says reflux symptoms without confirmed GERD; check documentation.
Coding tip
Look for the exact phrase “with esophagitis, without bleeding” before assigning K21.00.