Hemorrhage, not elsewhere classified

This code signifies bleeding that is not specifically attributed to a particular organ, system, or underlying disease process. It represents a general diagnosis of hemorrhage when a more precise anatomical site or cause cannot be determined or is not documented.

Use this code when documentation indicates hemorrhage without further specification of its origin or when the bleeding is a symptom of an underlying condition that has its own specific hemorrhage code (as listed in the Excludes1 notes). This code is appropriate for situations where the physician has not identified the source of the bleeding or has ruled out specific causes.

• Always attempt to code to the most specific site and cause of hemorrhage possible before resorting to this general code.
• Review the Excludes1 notes carefully; this code should never be assigned with conditions where hemorrhage is an integral part of the diagnosis (e.g., K26.0, K29.01, K51.01).
• Documentation should clearly state "hemorrhage, not otherwise specified" or indicate that the source is unknown after investigation.