2025 ICD-10-CM code J94.1
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Respiratory System Diseases - Other diseases of the pleura Chapter 10: Diseases of the respiratory system Feed
Fibrothorax is a thickening of the pleural lining surrounding the lungs.
Medical necessity for fibrothorax coding rests on the presence of clinically significant pleural thickening impacting respiratory function. This is substantiated by appropriate imaging and functional testing demonstrating a limitation in lung expansion or capacity, and often corresponding symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain. Documentation must support the impact on the patient's daily life and the need for medical intervention.
Pulmonologists and thoracic surgeons are primarily responsible for the diagnosis and management of fibrothorax.Other specialists may be involved depending on the underlying cause and complications.
In simple words: Fibrothorax is a condition where the lining around your lungs becomes thickened due to scar tissue.This can make it harder to breathe because the lungs can't expand fully.
Fibrothorax, as classified under ICD-10-CM code J94.1, refers to the presence of pleural thickening or fibrosis.This condition involves the development of scar tissue in the pleura, the membrane enveloping the lungs. The thickening can restrict lung expansion, potentially leading to shortness of breath and reduced lung capacity.The etiology of fibrothorax is varied and may include prior inflammation, infection, or trauma to the pleura.Diagnosis often involves chest imaging (X-ray, CT scan) revealing pleural thickening and may be supported by clinical findings such as dyspnea (shortness of breath) or decreased lung function tests.
Example 1: A 60-year-old male patient with a history of asbestos exposure presents with progressive shortness of breath. Chest X-ray reveals significant pleural thickening, consistent with fibrothorax. Further investigations might include pulmonary function tests to assess the extent of lung restriction and a CT scan for detailed imaging. Treatment may focus on managing symptoms and improving respiratory function, potentially including supplemental oxygen therapy or pulmonary rehabilitation., A 45-year-old female patient recovering from a case of severe pneumonia experiences persistent chest pain and shortness of breath. Imaging reveals pleural thickening as a sequela of the infection, classified as fibrothorax.Management focuses on symptom relief and monitoring for any further complications. Treatment may include medication to reduce inflammation and pain management strategies., A 72-year-old patient with a history of tuberculosis, successfully treated years ago, presents with mild dyspnea.A chest X-ray shows residual pleural thickening, suggestive of fibrothorax.Given the history of tuberculosis, this finding warrants monitoring but may not require specific intervention unless symptoms worsen.
Detailed patient history including occupational and environmental exposures (e.g., asbestos, environmental tobacco smoke), prior infections or inflammatory processes.Imaging reports (chest X-ray, CT scan) demonstrating pleural thickening.Pulmonary function tests to quantify lung capacity and function.Clinical findings including symptoms (dyspnea, chest pain), physical examination notes.Any relevant laboratory results.
** Fibrothorax may be a consequence of various underlying conditions.Thorough documentation of the patient's history and imaging findings is crucial for appropriate coding.The severity of fibrothorax may vary, influencing treatment decisions.
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