ICD-10 Code for GERD (acid reflux)

The ICD-10-CM code for GERD (acid reflux) is K21.9 when documented without further specification. Gastro-esophageal reflux disease defaults to K21.9; documented esophagitis changes it to the K21.0- family.

Which Code Should You Use?

K21.9 — Gastro-esophageal reflux disease without esophagitis

GERD without esophagitis (or esophagitis not documented).

K21.00 — Gastro-esophageal reflux disease with esophagitis, without bleeding

GERD WITH esophagitis, without bleeding.

K21.01 — Gastro-esophageal reflux disease with esophagitis, with bleeding

GERD with esophagitis, WITH bleeding.

R12 — Heartburn

Heartburn symptom only - no GERD diagnosis documented.

What to Document

  • Esophagitis presence on endoscopy (drives K21.0- selection).
  • Bleeding when esophagitis is present.
  • Barrett's esophagus if found - report K22.7- in addition to the GERD code (both are reportable).

Coding Notes

K21.9 is one of the most-used digestive codes; the symptom code R12 applies only when no reflux disease diagnosis is made.

References

Reviewed by Prajwal Shrestha, CPC, CRC
Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Certified Risk Adjustment Coder (CRC) · AAPC Member ID 01997614 · About · Editorial policy · Content last reviewed: 2025-10-01

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