Irritable bowel syndrome

This code represents Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort associated with altered bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or mixed). It is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning other organic causes of symptoms have been ruled out.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, often supported by Rome IV criteria or similar diagnostic guidelines. This applies to patients presenting with chronic, recurring abdominal pain and changes in bowel frequency or consistency without evidence of inflammatory, infectious, or structural abnormalities.

• Ensure documentation specifies IBS and not just general abdominal pain or constipation/diarrhea without a definitive IBS diagnosis.
• Do not use this code if an organic cause for the symptoms (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis) has been identified.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when IBS is the chief complaint or reason for the encounter.