2025 ICD-10-CM code Q34
Other congenital malformations of respiratory system
Medical necessity for the use of Q34 codes is established by the presence of a congenital anomaly of the respiratory system impacting the patient's respiratory health. This may manifest as respiratory distress, recurrent infections, or impaired lung function. The specific medical necessity criteria will depend on the particular malformation and its severity.
Diagnosis and management of congenital respiratory malformations typically fall under the purview of pediatric pulmonologists, neonatologists, and pediatric surgeons.These specialists are responsible for assessing the severity of the malformation, determining the appropriate course of treatment (which may range from observation to surgical intervention), and providing ongoing care to manage any associated respiratory complications.
In simple words: This code is used for birth defects affecting a baby's breathing system that aren't covered by other, more specific codes.It can include problems with the lining of the lungs (pleura), cysts in the chest cavity (mediastinum), and other breathing-related birth defects.
This code encompasses congenital malformations of the respiratory system that are not classified elsewhere. This includes anomalies of the pleura, congenital cysts of the mediastinum, and other specified congenital malformations of the respiratory system, such as atresia of the nasopharynx.
Example 1: A newborn presents with respiratory distress and is found to have a congenital cyst in the mediastinum compressing the trachea. This would be coded as Q34.1., An infant is diagnosed with atresia of the nasopharynx, a congenital blockage of the nasal passages. This would be coded as Q34.8., A child is born with an abnormal formation of the pleura, the lining of the lungs, leading to recurrent pneumothoraces. This would be coded as Q34.0.
Documentation should clearly specify the nature and location of the congenital malformation. Imaging studies, such as chest X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, are often crucial for confirming the diagnosis.Pulmonary function tests may be necessary to assess the impact of the malformation on respiratory function. Operative reports, if surgery is performed, should be included as well.
** Excludes2: inborn errors of metabolism (E70-E88) and congenital central alveolar hypoventilation syndrome (G47.35).
- Specialties:Pediatric Pulmonology, Neonatology, Pediatric Surgery, Otolaryngology (for nasopharyngeal anomalies)
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Office