Pyothorax (J86)

ICD-10 code J86 is used to classify pyothorax, an infection that causes pus to build up in the pleural space of the chest. This section includes codes distinguishing between pyothorax cases with and without fistulas, which are abnormal connections between organs or vessels.

The general code J86 covers pyothorax, while J86.0 specifies pyothorax with fistula, involving conditions such as bronchopleural fistula or tracheoesophageal fistula. These represent abnormal channels that may form between the lung and other structures, complicating the infection. Conditions such as congenital or acquired esophageal and tracheal fistulas fall under J86.0, helping coders identify infections with these abnormal anatomical communications.

J86.9 is used for pyothorax cases without fistula, often called empyema or septic pleurisy, where localized pus accumulates in the pleural cavity. Synonyms like pleural empyema, bacterial pleurisy, or loculated empyema correspond to this code, aiding professionals in correctly coding infections without fistulous tracts. Understanding these subtle differences in the ICD-10 code for pyothorax ensures precise medical documentation and supports effective patient care.

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.

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.

  • abscess of lung J85
  • pyothorax due to tuberculosis A15.6

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.

Bronchial Fistula

An abnormal passage or communication between a bronchus and another part of the body.

Cholecystitis

Inflammation of the GALLBLADDER; generally caused by impairment of BILE flow, GALLSTONES in the BILIARY TRACT, infections, or other diseases.

Empyema

Presence of pus in a hollow organ or body cavity.

Empyema, Pleural

Suppurative inflammation of the pleural space.

Empyema, Subdural

An intracranial or rarely intraspinal suppurative process invading the space between the inner surface of the DURA MATER and the outer surface of the ARACHNOID.

Empyema, Tuberculous

Empyema due to MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis

A species of gram-positive, aerobic bacteria that produces TUBERCULOSIS in humans, other primates, CATTLE; DOGS; and some other animals which have contact with humans. Growth tends to be in serpentine, cordlike masses in which the bacilli show a parallel orientation.

Tracheoesophageal Fistula

Abnormal passage between the ESOPHAGUS and the TRACHEA, acquired or congenital, often associated with ESOPHAGEAL ATRESIA.