ICD-10 Code K92.1 – Melena (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K92.1 – Melena
What it is
Melena means black, tarry stool caused by digested blood in the gastrointestinal tract. You use this code when the record documents melena as a finding, not a confirmed source of bleeding.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include black, sticky stool with a distinct odor and evidence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K92.1 when the provider documents melena or black tarry stool as the diagnosis or symptom being evaluated. It may apply during workup for suspected gastrointestinal hemorrhage when the bleeding source is not yet identified. Code the confirmed underlying cause separately if documented.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for hematochezia, rectal bleeding, or blood in stool without melena. Check documentation if the stool color is due to iron, bismuth, or another nonbleeding cause.
Coding tip
Assign K92.1 only when melena is explicitly documented; otherwise, query or check documentation before coding.