K21 ICD-10-CM Code: Gastro-esophageal reflux disease
A clear reference for the official code description, hierarchy, and related coding information from the April 2026 U.S. release.
Code definition
Official description
K21Gastro-esophageal reflux disease
ICD-10-CM diagnosis code · United States clinical modification
Classification
Where K21 sits
- 1
Chapter 11
Diseases of the digestive system (K00-K95)
- 2
Section
Diseases of esophagus, stomach and duodenum (K20-K31)
- 3
Category K21
Gastro-esophageal reflux disease
- 4
Code K21
Gastro-esophageal reflux disease
More specific choices
Codes under K21
K21 is a non-billable category. Choose the child code that best matches the documented diagnosis.
Documentation details
Notes for this code
Inclusion terms
No inclusion terms are listed for K21.
Code first
No “code first” instruction is listed for K21.
Use additional code
No “use additional code” instruction is listed for K21.
Excludes1
Conditions that should not be reported together with this code.
- newborn esophageal reflux (P78.83)
Excludes2
Conditions not included here that may be reported separately when present.
No Excludes2 note is listed for K21.
Transparency
Source and release
This reference is generated from Vero’s ICD-10-CM description, hierarchy, and code-note dataset. The visible content and structured data share that source.
Review the CDC/NCHS ICD-10-CM sourceCode-specific guidance
Frequently asked questions
What does ICD-10-CM code K21 mean?
K21 is the April 2026 U.S. ICD-10-CM code for “Gastro-esophageal reflux disease.”
Is K21 a billable or specific ICD-10-CM code?
No. K21 has more specific child codes in the April 2026 reference data. Select the code that matches the documentation and confirm the active code set and payer requirements.
Where is K21 located in ICD-10-CM?
K21 is listed in Chapter 11, Diseases of the digestive system (K00-K95), within Diseases of esophagus, stomach and duodenum (K20-K31) (K20–K31), under category K21, Gastro-esophageal reflux disease.
What coding notes are listed for K21?
No inclusion terms are listed for K21 in this reference record. No code-first instruction is listed. Excludes1 notes: newborn esophageal reflux (P78.83). No Excludes2 note is listed.
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