Hemorrhage of rectum and anus

This code represents active bleeding originating from the rectal or anal canal. It indicates the presence of blood loss from the terminal portion of the large intestine or the external opening of the digestive tract.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states hemorrhage of the rectum or anus, such as hematochezia, melena attributed to a lower GI source, or visible bleeding from the anal canal. This applies to both acute and chronic bleeding episodes.

• Differentiate from hemorrhage of other lower GI sites; ensure documentation specifies rectum or anus.
• Always code the underlying cause of the hemorrhage (e.g., diverticulosis, hemorrhoids, polyps) as a primary diagnosis if known.
• Do not use for occult blood in stool without evidence of active bleeding.