Ulcerative (chronic) ileocolitis

This code identifies a chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting both the ileum and the colon, characterized by ulcerations and inflammation of the mucosal lining. It represents a specific form of ulcerative colitis where the inflammation extends beyond the colon into the terminal ileum.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of ulcerative ileocolitis, often confirmed by endoscopy with biopsy showing chronic inflammation and ulceration in both the ileum and colon. This diagnosis typically arises from gastroenterology evaluations for symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding.

• Differentiate from Crohn's disease, which can also affect the ileum and colon but has transmural inflammation and skip lesions.
• Ensure documentation specifies "ulcerative" and involvement of both "ileum" and "colon" to support this specific code.
• Consider additional codes for associated complications such as strictures, fistulas, or toxic megacolon.