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ICD-10 Coding for Paraseptal Emphysema(J43.8)

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

Also known as:

Distal Acinar EmphysemaSubpleural Emphysema

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Paraseptal Emphysema

J43-J44Primary Range

Other and unspecified emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

This range includes codes for various types of emphysema, including paraseptal emphysema, and COPD.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for paraseptal emphysema

Essential facts and insights about Paraseptal Emphysema

The ICD-10 code for paraseptal emphysema is J43.8, used when imaging confirms the subtype.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for paraseptal emphysema

Other emphysema
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • HRCT shows subpleural lucencies without centrilobular changes.

Applicable To

  • Paraseptal emphysema

Excludes

  • Centrilobular emphysema (J43.2)
  • Panlobular emphysema (J43.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • High-resolution CT showing subpleural lucencies
  • Absence of centrilobular or panlobular changes

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using J43.9 for unspecified emphysema when paraseptal is documented.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure imaging confirms paraseptal emphysema before coding J43.8.

Ancillary Codes

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

COPD with acute exacerbation

J44.1
Use if paraseptal emphysema is complicated by an acute exacerbation.

Personal history of nicotine dependence

Z87.891
Use if there is a documented history of smoking.

Differential Codes

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

Centrilobular emphysema

J43.2
Centrilobular emphysema is characterized by central lobular changes, not subpleural.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Paraseptal Emphysema to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code J43.8.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment plans., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding standards., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate clinicians on the importance of detailed documentation., Implement checklist for CT report reviews.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment and affect reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Always specify the subtype of emphysema when imaging confirms it.

Impact

Using J43.9 instead of J43.8 when paraseptal emphysema is documented.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough review of imaging reports before coding.

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

Documentation Templates for Paraseptal Emphysema

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

Documenting paraseptal emphysema in a smoker

Specialty: Pulmonology

Required Elements

  • CT findings
  • Smoking history
  • Symptoms and exacerbations

Example Documentation

HRCT reveals paraseptal emphysema with subpleural lucencies in the upper lobes. Patient has a 30 pack-year smoking history.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Emphysema noted on CT.
Good Documentation Example
HRCT demonstrates paraseptal emphysema with 8 mm subpleural lucencies in bilateral upper lobes.
Explanation
The good example specifies the type and location of emphysema, which is necessary for accurate coding.

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

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