Acute bronchiolitis due to respiratory syncytial virus
ICD-10 J21.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute bronchiolitis due to respiratory syncytial virus.
Acute bronchiolitis due to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common viral infection that primarily affects infants and young children, typically under the age of 2. Clinically, it presents with symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing, often following a mild upper respiratory infection. The disease is characterized by inflammation and obstruction of the small airways (bronchioles) in the lungs, leading to respiratory distress. The anatomy involved includes the bronchioles, which are the smallest air passages in the lungs, and the surrounding alveoli where gas exchange occurs. Disease progression can vary; while many children recover within a week, some may develop severe respiratory distress requiring hospitalization. Diagnostic considerations include clinical evaluation of symptoms, history of exposure to RSV, and, in some cases, laboratory tests such as PCR or antigen detection to confirm RSV infection. Early recognition and management are crucial to prevent complications.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
J21.0 specifically covers acute bronchiolitis caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). It is characterized by inflammation of the bronchioles, leading to respiratory distress in infants and young children.
J21.0 should be used when the acute bronchiolitis is confirmed to be due to RSV. If the cause is identified as another virus, such as rhinovirus or adenovirus, then related codes like J21.1 should be used.
Documentation should include clinical findings such as wheezing, cough, and respiratory distress, along with any laboratory confirmation of RSV. Detailed notes on the patient's history and symptom progression are also necessary.
