Gastritis, unspecified, with bleeding

This code signifies inflammation of the stomach lining, the specific cause of which is not documented, accompanied by evidence of gastrointestinal bleeding. The bleeding can manifest as hematemesis, melena, or positive fecal occult blood.

Apply this code when documentation indicates gastritis with active or historical bleeding, but the specific type or etiology of the gastritis (e.g., acute, chronic, alcoholic) is not specified. Supporting documentation includes physician notes detailing symptoms like epigastric pain, nausea, and signs of bleeding, along with endoscopic findings of gastric inflammation and hemorrhage.

• Ensure the documentation clearly links the bleeding to the gastritis; otherwise, code the bleeding separately.
• If the type of gastritis is documented (e.g., acute, chronic, alcoholic), use a more specific K29 subcategory.
• Always sequence this code after any underlying cause of the gastritis if known and documented.