ICD-10 Code K27.0 – Acute peptic ulcer, site unspecified, with hemorrhage (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K27.0 – Acute peptic ulcer, site unspecified, with hemorrhage
What it is
This code identifies an acute peptic ulcer when the exact site is not documented and the ulcer is actively bleeding. Use it when the record confirms a peptic ulcer but does not specify stomach, duodenum, or another site.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include evidence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, such as hematemesis or melena, with documentation of an acute peptic ulcer. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K27.0 when the provider documents an acute peptic ulcer with hemorrhage and does not identify the site. It also fits cases where endoscopy or other notes confirm bleeding from a peptic ulcer, but the location remains unspecified. Check documentation if the record describes chronic ulcer disease or a different gastrointestinal source.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for peptic ulcers without hemorrhage or when the site is clearly documented as gastric or duodenal. If the bleeding source is another lesion or diagnosis, code that condition instead.
Coding tip
Code the documented ulcer site first if it is available; use K27.0 only when the site is truly unspecified.