ICD-10 Code K51.211 – Ulcerative (chronic) proctitis with rectal bleeding (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K51.211 – Ulcerative (chronic) proctitis with rectal bleeding
What it is
K51.211 identifies chronic ulcerative inflammation limited to the rectum, with documented rectal bleeding. Use it when the record shows ulcerative proctitis and bleeding as a current feature.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include rectal urgency, mucus or blood per rectum, and inflammation confined to the rectum on exam or endoscopy. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents ulcerative proctitis and specifically notes rectal bleeding. It fits encounters for confirmed chronic disease, including flare-ups, follow-up visits, or ongoing management when bleeding remains part of the diagnosis.
Code it only when the record supports both the ulcerative proctitis and the bleeding component. If bleeding is present but the diagnosis is not clearly chronic ulcerative proctitis, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for ulcerative colitis affecting areas beyond the rectum, or for rectal bleeding without documented ulcerative proctitis. Check documentation if the cause of bleeding is unclear.
Coding tip
Look for explicit provider wording that links rectal bleeding to ulcerative proctitis before assigning K51.211.