Wiki COPD with bronchitis that is not specified as acute or chronic

[05186111]

What is the correct ICD-9-CM coding for COPD with bronchitis when the bronchitis is not specified as acute or chronic?

 

[stathia_c]

I would use 491.21. COPD with the exacerbation. You can always check with your physician to get the specifics.

 

[05186111]

In this particular scenario there is no option to query the physician. Code 491.21 represents obstructive chronic bronchitis, with (acute) exacerbation. The bronchitis is not specified as chronic, and the record does not document an exacerbation of the COPD. The Impression simply states “bronchitis”, and the history includes COPD, which is a chronic condition.

 

[JulesofColorado]

I would code 491.20.

 

[05186111]

OK, thanks. Now I see……..code 496 represents chronic airway obstruction / COPD, and the alphabetic index shows bronchitis with chronic airway obstruction is coded 491.20. Thanks to all!