ICD-10 Code K51.018 – Ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis with other complication (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K51.018 – Ulcerative (chronic) pancolitis with other complication
What it is
This code identifies chronic ulcerative colitis affecting the entire colon, with an additional complication not named elsewhere in the code set. Use it when documentation confirms pancolitis and a separate complication.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include chronic bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, urgency, and weight loss. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the specific complication linked to the pancolitis.
When to use this code
Use K51.018 when the provider documents ulcerative pancolitis and also states another complication, such as one not captured by a more specific code. This is appropriate for active encounters and problem list coding when the complication is current. If the record does not clearly identify the complication, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for ulcerative colitis limited to the rectum, left side, or unspecified extent. Do not use it when no complication is documented or when a more specific ulcerative colitis code applies.
Coding tip
Match the documentation to both elements: pancolitis and the named complication; if either is unclear, query the provider.