ICD-10 K26
Non-Billable HeaderDuodenal ulcer
About ICD-10-CM K26
ICD-10-CM code K26 represents Duodenal ulcer. This is a non-billable header code in the Digestive System chapter (block K26). The 2026 edition of ICD-10-CM K26 became effective on October 1, 2025. Non-billable codes cannot be used as a primary or secondary diagnosis on a claim, use a more specific child code instead.
Type 1 Excludes
Pure excludes, these codes can never be coded together with K26. The conditions are mutually exclusive (e.g., congenital vs acquired forms).
- peptic ulcer NOS (K27.-)
Includes
- erosion (acute) of duodenum
- duodenum ulcer (peptic)
- postpyloric ulcer (peptic)
Use Additional Code
When coding K26, also report these additional codes when applicable.
- code to identify:
- alcohol abuse and dependence (F10.-)
Medicare LCD Coverage for K26
Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) from CMS MACs that list K26 as a covered diagnosis.
This doesn't mean the code isn't covered, it means no MAC has issued a Local Coverage Determination naming this specific code. Coverage may still apply under National Coverage Determinations or general medical-necessity rules.
Commercial Payer Coverage
Coverage policies from major commercial payers referencing K26.
Our payer policy database covers Aetna, Cigna, Anthem, BCBS, Humana, and Medicare Advantage plans, but K26 doesn't currently appear in any indexed policy. The code may still be covered under standard plan benefits.
CPT Codes Commonly Billed with K26
Procedures frequently paired with this diagnosis based on PayerReady's Dx↔Px linkage data.
We don't have CPT pairings indexed for this specific code yet. Use the CPT search above to find common procedures, or check your payer's published medical policy for code-specific guidance.
Codes Adjacent To K26
Other codes in section K20-K31 (Diseases of esophagus, stomach and duodenum).
ICD-10 K26, Billing FAQ
Is ICD-10 code K26 billable? +
No, K26 is a non-billable header code. Use a more specific child code from block K26 when submitting claims.
What codes are Type 1 Excludes for K26? +
Type 1 Excludes (never code together with K26): peptic ulcer NOS (K27.-)
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Reviewed by the PayerReady Medical Coding Team
Verified against the CMS 2026 code set on June 1, 2026.
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