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  2. ICD-10-CM Codes List
  3. J00–J99
  4. J80-J84
  5. Pulmonary edema (J81)

Pulmonary edema (J81)

ICD-10 code J81 represents pulmonary edema, a condition where excess fluid builds up in the lungs, making breathing difficult. This section includes two main types: J81.0 for acute pulmonary edema and J81.1 for chronic pulmonary edema.

The ICD-10 code for acute pulmonary edema (J81.0) covers sudden fluid accumulation often described by terms such as "acute cardiac pulmonary edema" or "negative pressure pulmonary edema." It includes instances caused by fluid overload or post-upper airway obstruction. On the other hand, J81.1 codes chronic pulmonary edema, which may occur due to ongoing conditions like hypoproteinemia, neurogenic causes, or pregnancy-induced hypertension. Common synonyms like "pulmonary congestion," "respiratory tract congestion," and "postoperative pulmonary edema" help clarify that chronic pulmonary edema represents longer-term fluid buildup. These codes guide healthcare professionals and coders in accurately classifying pulmonary edema cases depending on whether the condition is sudden or persistent, supporting appropriate treatment and documentation.

Instructional Notations

Use Additional Code

The “use additional code” indicates that a secondary code could be used to further specify the patient’s condition. This note is not mandatory and is only used if enough information is available to assign an additional code.

  • code to identify:
  • exposure to environmental tobacco smoke Z77.22
  • history of tobacco dependence Z87.891
  • occupational exposure to environmental tobacco smoke Z57.31
  • tobacco dependence F17
  • tobacco use Z72.0

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.

  • chemical acute pulmonary edema J68.1
  • hypostatic pneumonia J18.2
  • passive pneumonia J18.2
  • pulmonary edema due to external agents J60 J70
  • pulmonary edema with heart disease NOS I50.1
  • pulmonary edema with heart failure I50.1

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.

Pulmonary Edema

Excessive accumulation of extravascular fluid in the lung, an indication of a serious underlying disease or disorder. Pulmonary edema prevents efficient PULMONARY GAS EXCHANGE in the PULMONARY ALVEOLI, and can be life-threatening.