ICD-10 Code K26.3 – Acute duodenal ulcer without hemorrhage or perforation (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K26.3 – Acute duodenal ulcer without hemorrhage or perforation
What it is
K26.3 identifies a newly active ulcer in the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine, without bleeding or a hole in the wall. Use it when documentation specifies an acute duodenal ulcer and does not mention hemorrhage or perforation.
Clinical signs
Typical features include upper abdominal pain, dyspepsia, nausea, or symptoms of peptic ulcer disease. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, and confirm that no bleeding or perforation is documented.
When to use this code
Use K26.3 when the provider documents an acute duodenal ulcer and specifically states there is no hemorrhage and no perforation. It also fits when endoscopy or other evaluation supports a duodenal ulcer without complications. If the record only says “duodenal ulcer,” check documentation for acuity and complication status.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for duodenal ulcers with bleeding, perforation, or chronic/unspecified ulcer descriptions. Check documentation if the site is gastric rather than duodenal.
Coding tip
Always verify both the ulcer location and whether hemorrhage or perforation is excluded before assigning K26.3.