Pleural effusion in conditions classified elsewhere (J91)
The ICD-10 code J91 identifies pleural effusions that occur as a result of other underlying medical conditions rather than primary pleural diseases. It includes specific codes like J91.0 for malignant pleural effusion and J91.8 for effusions linked to various other disorders.
These codes are used when a buildup of fluid in the pleural space is caused by conditions classified elsewhere. For example, J91.0 covers malignant pleural effusion, fluid accumulation due to cancer or its treatment. The J91.8 code is used for pleural effusions related to diverse causes such as bacterial infections, hepatic disorders, congestive heart failure, drug reactions, and diseases affecting the pancreas or lungs. Synonyms like "benign asbestos pleural effusion" or "Meigs' syndrome" connect to J91.8, helping clarify code selection when pleural effusions arise secondary to these conditions. Understanding these distinctions ensures precise coding for pleural effusions that accompany other diseases, aiding accurate medical documentation and care planning.
Diseases of the respiratory system (J00–J99)
Other diseases of the pleura (J90-J94)
J91 Pleural effusion in conditions classified elsewhere
- J91.0 Malignant pleural effusion
- J91.8 Pleural effusion in other conditions classified elsewhere
Pleural effusion in conditions classified elsewhere (J91)
Instructional Notations
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.
