ICD-10 Code K27.4 – Chronic or unspecified peptic ulcer, site unspecified, with hemorrhage (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K27.4 – Chronic or unspecified peptic ulcer, site unspecified, with hemorrhage
What it is
This code identifies a peptic ulcer that is chronic or not further specified, with the bleeding site not documented. Use it when the record confirms ulcer-related hemorrhage but does not specify the stomach, duodenum, or another site.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly documented signs include upper gastrointestinal bleeding, such as hematemesis, melena, or anemia, with endoscopic or clinical evidence of a peptic ulcer.
When to use this code
Use K27.4 when the provider documents a chronic peptic ulcer or an unspecified peptic ulcer and states that it has bled, but the site remains unspecified. It also fits discharge summaries or procedure notes that confirm ulcer hemorrhage without naming the exact location. If the record identifies a specific site, choose the more specific ulcer code instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for peptic ulcer without hemorrhage or for ulcers with perforation only. Also avoid it when documentation clearly identifies a gastric, duodenal, or other specified ulcer site.
Coding tip
Check the provider note for both chronicity and bleeding, and code the most specific ulcer site documented.