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ICD-10 Coding for Bronchospasm(J98.01, J45.990)

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

Also known as:

Acute bronchospasmExercise-induced bronchospasm

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Bronchospasm

J98.0-J98.09Primary Range

Other respiratory disorders

This range includes codes for various respiratory conditions, with J98.01 specifically for acute bronchospasm.

Asthma

Includes codes for asthma, which may be related to bronchospasm if asthma is the underlying cause.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
J98.01Acute bronchospasmUse when bronchospasm is acute and not linked to asthma or COPD.
  • Spirometry showing ≥12% FEV1 increase post-bronchodilator
  • Documented sudden onset with no chronic respiratory history
J45.990Exercise-induced bronchospasmUse when bronchospasm is specifically linked to exercise.
  • PEFR drop ≥10% after exercise challenge

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 bronchospasm

Essential facts and insights about Bronchospasm

The ICD-10 code for acute bronchospasm is J98.01, used when not linked to asthma or COPD.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for bronchospasm

Acute bronchospasm
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Sudden onset of symptoms with no chronic respiratory history

coding Criteria

  • Excludes asthma-related bronchospasm

Applicable To

  • Acute bronchospasm not linked to asthma or COPD

Excludes

  • Asthma (J45.-)
  • Exercise-induced bronchospasm (J45.990)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Spirometry showing ≥12% FEV1 increase post-bronchodilator
  • Documented sudden onset with no chronic respiratory history

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of miscoding as asthma exacerbation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies acute nature and excludes asthma.

Ancillary Codes

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

Contact with and (suspected) exposure to environmental pollution and other contaminants

Z77.22
Use when bronchospasm is due to occupational exposure.

Differential Codes

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

Exercise-induced bronchospasm

J45.990
Symptoms triggered by physical exertion, documented exercise link required.

Acute bronchospasm

J98.01
Not linked to exercise, sudden onset.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Bronchospasm to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code J98.01.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect diagnosis., Regulatory: Fails to meet coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific clinical terms., Include objective test results.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment may affect payment., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data reporting.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies bronchospasm is not linked to asthma.

Impact

Failure to sequence underlying conditions first.

Mitigation Strategy

Train staff on proper sequencing rules.

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 Bronchospasm, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Bronchospasm

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

Acute bronchospasm in emergency department

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Spirometry results
  • Response to bronchodilators
  • Exclusion of asthma

Example Documentation

Patient presents with acute bronchospasm, FEV1 improved from 55% to 72% post-albuterol.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Wheezing and SOB noted.
Good Documentation Example
Acute bronchospasm with wheezing, SpO2 92% on room air, FEV1 65% predicted improving to 78% post-nebulizer.
Explanation
The good example provides specific clinical data and treatment response.

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

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