Pleural effusion, not elsewhere classified (J90) ICD-10-CM
The J90 code range covers pleural effusion, not elsewhere classified with 1 ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes. 1 of them are billable and valid for claim submission in fiscal year 2026, and the category headers group them but cannot themselves be billed.
Inclusion Terms
These terms are the conditions for which that code is to be used. The terms may be synonyms of the code title, or, in the case of "other specified" codes, the terms are a list of the various conditions assigned to that code. The inclusion terms are not necessarily exhaustive. Additional terms found only in the Alphabetic Index may also be assigned to a code.
- Encysted pleurisy
- Pleural effusion NOS
- Pleurisy with effusion (exudative) (serous)
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.
Codes in the J90 Range 1 codes · 1 billable
- J90 Pleural effusion, not elsewhere classified
Clinical Terms in This Code Range
Definitions from the National Library of Medicine for conditions coded in the J90 range.
Hemothorax
Hemorrhage within the pleural cavity.
Hydrothorax
A collection of watery fluid in the pleural cavity. (Dorland, 27th ed)
Pleural Cavity
Paired but separate cavity within the THORACIC CAVITY. It consists of the space between the parietal and visceral PLEURA and normally contains a capillary layer of serous fluid that lubricates the pleural surfaces.
Pleural Effusion
Presence of fluid in the pleural cavity resulting from excessive transudation or exudation from the pleural surfaces. It is a sign of disease and not a diagnosis in itself.
Pleural Effusion, Malignant
Presence of fluid in the PLEURAL CAVITY as a complication of malignant disease. Malignant pleural effusions often contain actual malignant cells.
About the J90 Code Range
The ICD-10 code J90 specifically identifies a pleural effusion that cannot be classified under other categories. This code is used to document the presence of excess fluid in the pleural space without specifying an exact cause.
J90 covers various types of pleural effusions, including those described by common terms such as exudative pleural effusion, hemorrhagic pleural effusion, and hydrothorax. It also applies when pleural fluid characteristics are determined, like in pleural fluid type determination or serous pleurisy. Conditions such as pneumococcal pleurisy, bacterial pleurisy, and loculated or encysted pleural effusions fall under this code when they do not fit more specific classifications. The code helps clinicians and coders capture pleural effusions broadly, including bilateral effusions, pleurisy with effusion, and hemothorax, ensuring accurate recording of these fluid accumulations for diagnosis and treatment planning. For those searching the ICD-10 code for pleural effusion not elsewhere classified, J90 is the precise code to use.
Questions About This Page
How many billable codes are in the J90 range?
Of the 1 codes in this range, 1 are billable and valid for claim submission from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. Category header codes group them but cannot be reported on claims.
What does the J90 range classify?
The range classifies pleural effusion, not elsewhere classified. Each code links to its own reference page with billing status, MS-DRG grouping, coding notes, and clinical information.
Related References
Source: CMS FY 2026 ICD-10-CM Tabular List and order file, effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026.
