K52: Other and unspecified noninfective gastroenteritis and colitis

K52 refers to Other and unspecified noninfective gastroenteritis and colitis, a category of chronic or acute inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) or noninfective gastrointestinal inflammation. These disorders affect the lining of the GI tract and cause recurrent flare-ups, abdominal pain, and systemic symptoms.

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain and cramping – Especially common in Crohn’s disease (K50)
• Chronic diarrhea – Often bloody in ulcerative colitis (K51)
• Weight loss and fatigue – Seen in long-standing inflammation
• Fever and malaise – Suggest active inflammation
• Nausea and urgency – Found in K52 cases of colitis or gastroenteritis

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Other and unspecified noninfective gastroenteritis and colitis includes colonoscopy, endoscopy, stool studies, CRP/ESR blood tests, and imaging such as CT or MRI enterography. Biopsies confirm the pattern and depth of inflammation to differentiate between IBD types.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code K52 is used by gastroenterologists, internists, and primary care physicians for chronic disease management, insurance billing, flare-up treatment plans, and surgical documentation when resection or colectomy is required.

Related Codes

• K50 – Crohn's disease [regional enteritis]
• K51 – Ulcerative colitis

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code K52?
A: It refers to Other and unspecified noninfective gastroenteritis and colitis, an inflammatory condition of the bowel that causes GI symptoms and requires long-term management.

Q2: How do Crohn's disease (K50) and ulcerative colitis (K51) differ?
A: Crohn’s can affect any part of the GI tract with patchy inflammation, while UC is limited to the colon and rectum with continuous inflammation.

Q3: What is included in K52?
A: K52 includes colitis or gastroenteritis not caused by infection, such as ischemic, radiation-induced, or drug-related GI inflammation.

Q4: Are these conditions curable?
A: No, but they are manageable with medications, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery.

Q5: Who treats these diseases?
A: Gastroenterologists primarily manage these disorders with support from dietitians and surgeons when needed.

Conclusion

ICD10 code K52 ensures proper classification and tracking of Other and unspecified noninfective gastroenteritis and colitis, enabling effective treatment planning, long-term monitoring, and access to specialist care in chronic gastrointestinal conditions.