Inflammatory polyps of colon with rectal bleeding

This code signifies the presence of inflammatory polyps within the colon, specifically when accompanied by active rectal bleeding. These polyps are non-neoplastic growths resulting from chronic inflammation, often seen in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease. The bleeding indicates an acute symptom associated with these polyps.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states the diagnosis of inflammatory polyps of the colon and explicitly mentions concurrent rectal bleeding. This is appropriate for patients presenting with hematochezia or melena attributed to these inflammatory lesions. Supporting documentation would include colonoscopy reports identifying inflammatory polyps and physician notes detailing rectal bleeding.

• Ensure documentation specifies "inflammatory polyps" and not other types of polyps (e.g., adenomatous).
• Confirm that rectal bleeding is an active symptom and not a historical finding.
• Consider sequencing with an underlying inflammatory bowel disease code (e.g., Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis) if applicable and documented.