2025 ICD-10-CM code J22
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Diseases of the respiratory system - Other acute lower respiratory infections (J20-J22) J00-J99 Feed
Unspecified acute lower respiratory infection.
Medical necessity is established by the presence of signs and symptoms of an acute lower respiratory infection requiring medical intervention.
Diagnosis and treatment of the acute lower respiratory infection.
In simple words: This code represents a general acute infection of the lower respiratory tract that is not otherwise specified.
Unspecified acute lower respiratory infection. Acute (lower) respiratory (tract) infection NOS.
Example 1: A patient presents with cough, shortness of breath, and fever. The physician diagnoses an acute lower respiratory infection, but the specific type (e.g., bronchitis, pneumonia) cannot be determined. J22 is used., A patient with a history of asthma experiences worsening respiratory symptoms, including wheezing and chest tightness. The physician diagnoses an acute lower respiratory infection, but further investigation is needed to determine the precise nature of the infection. J22 is applied., An infant presents with rapid breathing and difficulty feeding. The physician suspects an acute lower respiratory infection, but additional tests are required for a definitive diagnosis. J22 is assigned.
Symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, fever, chest pain, wheezing, and difficulty breathing; physical exam findings; chest X-ray or other imaging studies, if performed; laboratory tests, if performed.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care Medicine
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, On Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Emergency Room - Hospital, Office, Telehealth Provided in Patient’s Home, Telehealth Provided Other than in Patient’s Home