ICD-10 Code K21.01 – Gastro-esophageal reflux disease with esophagitis, with bleeding (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K21.01 – Gastro-esophageal reflux disease with esophagitis, with bleeding
What it is
This code identifies gastro-esophageal reflux disease with inflammation of the esophagus and documented bleeding. Use it when reflux injury is present and the record shows bleeding from the esophagus.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include reflux symptoms plus evidence of esophagitis, and bleeding may be noted as hematemesis, melena, or endoscopic bleeding. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K21.01 when the provider documents GERD with esophagitis and confirms bleeding related to the esophageal condition. It is appropriate for discharge summaries, progress notes, or procedure reports that clearly link reflux disease, esophageal inflammation, and bleeding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if bleeding is unrelated to reflux esophagitis, or if the chart only states GERD without esophagitis. Check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm that bleeding is explicitly associated with the esophageal reflux diagnosis before assigning K21.01.