ICD-10 Coding for Acute Asthmatic Bronchitis(J45.901, J44.1)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Acute Asthmatic Bronchitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Acute Asthmatic Bronchitis
J44-J45Primary Range
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Asthma
This range includes codes for asthma and COPD, which are relevant for acute asthmatic bronchitis when exacerbations occur.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| J45.901 | Unspecified asthma with acute exacerbation | Use when acute asthmatic bronchitis is present without COPD. |
|
| J44.1 | COPD with acute exacerbation | Use when COPD is present with acute exacerbation. |
|
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 acute asthmatic bronchitis
Essential facts and insights about Acute Asthmatic Bronchitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for acute asthmatic bronchitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of wheezing and FEV1 improvement post-bronchodilator.
Applicable To
- Asthma with acute exacerbation
Excludes
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with acute exacerbation (J44.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Wheezing on auscultation
- FEV1 improvement ≥15% post-bronchodilator
- Productive cough >48hrs
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if COPD is also present but not coded.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies 'acute exacerbation' and asthma severity.
J44.1 - COPD with acute exacerbation
Use when COPD is present with acute exacerbation.
Applicable To
- COPD with acute exacerbation
Excludes
- Asthma with acute exacerbation (J45.901)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Chronic cough with sputum
- PFT showing irreversible airflow limitation
- Hypoxemia (SpO2 <92%)
Coding Notes
Sequence J44.1 before J45.901 when both conditions are present.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Acute Asthmatic Bronchitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code J45.901.
Impact
Clinical: Inadequate treatment planning., Regulatory: Potential audit flags., Financial: Reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific terms like 'acute exacerbation'., Include objective measures such as spirometry.
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to lower reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Code both J44.1 and J45.901 when both conditions are documented.
Impact
Inadequate documentation of exacerbation specifics.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation of clinical findings and treatment.
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 Acute Asthmatic Bronchitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Acute Asthmatic Bronchitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Acute Asthmatic Bronchitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Visit for Acute Asthmatic Bronchitis
Specialty: PulmonologyRequired Elements
- Patient history
- Physical examination findings
- Spirometry results
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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