ICD-10 Code K50.81 – Crohn’s Disease of Both Small and Large Intestine with Complications (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K50.81 – Crohn’s disease of both small and large intestine with complications
What it is
K50.81 identifies Crohn’s disease affecting both the small and large intestine when complications are documented. It is used when the record shows Crohn’s disease with additional disease-related problems, not uncomplicated inflammation alone.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include chronic abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and evidence of intestinal complications such as stricture, fistula, abscess, or obstruction.
When to use this code
Use K50.81 when the provider documents Crohn’s disease involving both small and large bowel and also notes a complication. This code fits encounters where the complication is part of the current diagnosis, even if the exact site of every lesion is not fully described.
If the chart only says Crohn’s disease without complications, choose a different Crohn’s code. Check documentation when the record is unclear about bowel involvement or whether the complication is active and clinically relevant.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for Crohn’s disease limited to one intestinal segment or for ulcerative colitis. Do not assign it when the complication is not documented.
Coding tip
Verify both the bowel location and the specific complication in the provider note before coding K50.81.