Unspecified chronic gastritis without bleeding

This code signifies a persistent, long-term inflammation of the stomach lining where the specific type of gastritis has not been identified. It indicates a chronic inflammatory process without any evidence of active gastrointestinal bleeding.

Use this code when documentation clearly states "chronic gastritis" but lacks further specificity regarding the cause (e.g., autoimmune, H. pylori, chemical) and explicitly denies or does not mention bleeding. This is appropriate when the physician has not yet determined the precise etiology of the chronic inflammation.

• Avoid using this code if the documentation specifies a particular type of chronic gastritis (e.g., K29.4- for atrophic gastritis).
• Do not use if active bleeding is documented; instead, refer to codes in the K29.3- or K29.4- series with hemorrhage.
• Query the provider for more specific documentation if possible, as a more precise diagnosis often exists.