ICD-10 Code K29.5 – Unspecified chronic gastritis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K29.5 – Unspecified chronic gastritis
What it is
K29.5 identifies chronic gastritis when the stomach lining is inflamed over time, but the type is not further specified. Use it when the record supports chronic gastritis without naming an exact cause or pattern.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly noted findings include persistent epigastric discomfort, nausea, bloating, or dyspepsia, but the diagnosis should be based on the provider’s assessment.
When to use this code
Use K29.5 when the clinician documents chronic gastritis and does not identify a more specific subtype, such as atrophic or other chronic gastritis. It also fits follow-up notes that confirm chronic gastritis without added detail. If the chart is unclear, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, or gastroesophageal reflux without documented chronic gastritis. If a more specific chronic gastritis type is stated, code that diagnosis instead.
Coding tip
Code K29.5 only when “chronic gastritis” is documented and no more specific term is available.