ICD-10 Code K29.81 – Duodenitis with bleeding (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K29.81 – Duodenitis with bleeding
What it is
K29.81 identifies inflammation of the duodenum with documented bleeding. Use it when the record shows duodenitis and active or recent gastrointestinal bleeding in the duodenum.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include upper gastrointestinal bleeding, such as melena or hematemesis, along with endoscopic or clinical evidence of duodenal inflammation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents duodenitis and specifically links it to bleeding. It may also apply when endoscopy or other records confirm bleeding from an inflamed duodenum. Check documentation if the source of bleeding is unclear or if only duodenitis is recorded.
Do not use for
Do not use K29.81 for duodenitis without bleeding, or for bleeding from another gastrointestinal site. If the note only says “GI bleed” without a duodenal source, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the bleeding only when the duodenal source is documented, and verify whether another diagnosis better explains the hemorrhage.