Universal ulcerative (chronic) colitis

This code represents a severe, chronic inflammatory bowel disease affecting the entire colon, characterized by widespread ulceration and inflammation. It signifies a pan-colonic involvement of ulcerative colitis, distinguishing it from more localized forms. Patients typically experience persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and weight loss.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states "universal ulcerative colitis" or "pan-colitis" in the context of ulcerative colitis. This diagnosis is supported by colonoscopy findings showing continuous inflammation extending from the rectum through the entire colon, along with biopsy confirmation. It's appropriate for chronic cases where the entire large intestine is affected.

• Differentiate from regional enteritis (Crohn's disease) which has different pathological characteristics and typically involves skip lesions.
• Ensure documentation specifies "universal" or "pan-colitis" to support this specific subcategory of ulcerative colitis.
• Consider sequencing with any associated complications, such as toxic megacolon or colorectal cancer, if present.