Emphysema (J43)

The ICD-10 code J43 series is used to classify different types of emphysema, a lung condition involving damaged air sacs that affect breathing. These codes help specifically identify the form and location of emphysema for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

The primary code J43 covers emphysema generally, while more detailed codes distinguish its variations. For example, J43.0 refers to unilateral pulmonary emphysema, also known as MacLeod's syndrome, which affects one lung. J43.1 (synonym: panacinar emphysema) describes panlobular emphysema where the entire lobule is damaged. J43.2 identifies centrilobular emphysema, also called centriacinar emphysema, primarily affecting the central parts of lung lobules. J43.8 captures other less common types, such as scar emphysema. Lastly, J43.9 is for unspecified emphysema and covers various terms like bullous emphysema, chronic atelectasis, or pulmonary emphysema related to alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. These codes enable healthcare providers to document the specific emphysema variant accurately, supporting improved clinical management and billing.

Instructional Notations

Type 1 Excludes

A type 1 excludes note is a pure excludes note. It means "NOT CODED HERE!" An Excludes1 note indicates that the code excluded should never be used at the same time as the code above the Excludes1 note. An Excludes1 is used when two conditions cannot occur together, such as a congenital form versus an acquired form of the same condition.

  • compensatory emphysema J98.3
  • emphysema due to inhalation of chemicals, gases, fumes or vapors J68.4
  • interstitial emphysema J98.2
  • mediastinal emphysema J98.2
  • neonatal interstitial emphysema P25.0
  • surgical subcutaneous emphysema T81.82

Type 2 Excludes

A type 2 excludes note represents "Not included here". An excludes2 note indicates that the condition excluded is not part of the condition represented by the code, but a patient may have both conditions at the same time. When an Excludes2 note appears under a code, it is acceptable to use both the code and the excluded code together, when appropriate.

  • emphysema with chronic obstructive bronchitis J44
  • emphysematous obstructive bronchitis J44
  • traumatic subcutaneous emphysema T79.7

Clinical Terms

The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.

Emphysema

A pathological accumulation of air in tissues or organs.

Emphysematous Cholecystitis

A variant of acute cholecystitis with inflammation of the GALLBLADDER that is characterized by the pockets of gas in the gallbladder wall. It is due to secondary infection caused by gas-forming organisms, and has a high risk of perforation.

Emphysematous Pyelonephritis

Acute often necrotizing pyelonephritis characterized by accumulation of gas within and around renal parenchyma. Emphysematous pyelonephritis is typically associated with bacterial infection in DIABETES MELLITUS and IMMUNOCOMPROMISED PATIENT.

Gallbladder

A storage reservoir for BILE secretion. Gallbladder allows the delivery of bile acids at a high concentration and in a controlled manner, via the CYSTIC DUCT to the DUODENUM, for degradation of dietary lipid.

Mediastinal Emphysema

Presence of air in the mediastinal tissues due to leakage of air from the tracheobronchial tree, usually as a result of trauma.

Pneumonia, Atypical Interstitial, of Cattle

A cattle disease of uncertain cause, probably an allergic reaction.

Pulmonary Emphysema

Enlargement of air spaces distal to the TERMINAL BRONCHIOLES where gas-exchange normally takes place. This is usually due to destruction of the alveolar wall. Pulmonary emphysema can be classified by the location and distribution of the lesions.

Subcutaneous Emphysema

Presence of air or gas in the subcutaneous tissues of the body.