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ICD-10 Coding for Bronchiectasis(J47.0, J47.1, J47.9, Q33.4)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Bronchiectasis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Chronic Bronchial DilationBronchial Dilatation

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Bronchiectasis

J47Primary Range

Bronchiectasis

This range includes codes for bronchiectasis, both with and without acute exacerbation, and is the primary range for coding this condition.

Congenital bronchiectasis

This code is used for congenital cases of bronchiectasis, which are genetically confirmed or diagnosed in childhood.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
J47.0Bronchiectasis with acute lower respiratory infectionUse when bronchiectasis is accompanied by an acute lower respiratory infection.
  • CT scan showing bronchial wall thickening
  • Presence of acute infection symptoms
J47.1Bronchiectasis with acute exacerbationUse when there is an acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis symptoms.
  • CT scan confirmation
  • Increased sputum production and systemic symptoms
J47.9Bronchiectasis, uncomplicatedUse for stable bronchiectasis without acute exacerbation.
  • CT scan showing bronchial dilation
  • Chronic symptoms without acute exacerbation
Q33.4Congenital bronchiectasisUse for congenital cases confirmed by genetic testing or early diagnosis.
  • Genetic testing or childhood diagnosis

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for bronchiectasis with acute exacerbation

Essential facts and insights about Bronchiectasis

The ICD-10 code for bronchiectasis with acute exacerbation is J47.1, used when symptoms increase and systemic signs are present.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bronchiectasis

Bronchiectasis with acute lower respiratory infection
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of acute infection symptoms with bronchiectasis

Applicable To

  • Bronchiectasis with pneumonia

Excludes

  • Congenital bronchiectasis (Q33.4)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • CT scan showing bronchial wall thickening
  • Presence of acute infection symptoms

Code-Specific Risks

  • Ensure infection is documented and confirmed

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation of infection and organism for accurate coding.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B95.5
Use to specify the infectious organism in bronchiectasis with infection.

Fever, unspecified

R50.9
Use to document systemic symptoms like fever during exacerbation.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with acute lower respiratory infection

J44.0
COPD without bronchial dilation on CT.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with acute exacerbation

J44.1
COPD exacerbation without bronchial dilation on CT.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, unspecified

J44.9
COPD without bronchial dilation on CT.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bronchiectasis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code J47.0.

Impact

Clinical: Misdiagnosis risk, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure CT results are documented, Verify documentation before coding

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use J47.1 for acute exacerbations with documented symptoms.

Impact

Inadequate documentation of exacerbation symptoms.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed documentation of symptoms and treatments.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Bronchiectasis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Bronchiectasis

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Bronchiectasis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Acute exacerbation of bronchiectasis

Specialty: Pulmonology

Required Elements

  • CT scan findings
  • Symptom description
  • Treatment history

Example Documentation

Patient presents with increased sputum production and fever. CT confirms bronchiectasis. Initiated antibiotics.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has bronchiectasis flare.
Good Documentation Example
Patient presents with increased sputum production, fever, and fatigue. CT confirms exacerbation. Initiated antibiotics.
Explanation
The good example provides specific symptoms and treatment, supporting the use of J47.1.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Bronchiectasis? Ask your questions below.

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