Cough variant asthma
ICD-10 J45.991 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cough variant asthma.
Cough variant asthma (CVA) is a subtype of asthma characterized primarily by a persistent cough as the predominant symptom, rather than the typical wheezing or shortness of breath. The cough is often dry and can be triggered by various factors, including allergens, respiratory infections, exercise, and environmental irritants. The underlying pathophysiology involves airway inflammation and hyperreactivity, leading to bronchoconstriction and increased mucus production. Anatomically, the condition affects the bronchial tubes, which become inflamed and narrowed, resulting in obstructed airflow. Disease progression can vary; some patients may experience intermittent symptoms, while others may develop more severe asthma over time if left untreated. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical history, physical examination, and may include spirometry or peak flow measurements to assess lung function. A cough variant asthma diagnosis is often confirmed when the cough improves with bronchodilator therapy, distinguishing it from other chronic cough etiologies.
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
J45.991 specifically covers cough variant asthma, which is characterized by a chronic cough without the classic symptoms of wheezing or dyspnea. It is important to differentiate it from other types of asthma and chronic cough syndromes.
J45.991 should be used when the primary symptom is a chronic cough attributed to asthma, particularly when other asthma types (like J45.909 for unspecified asthma) do not accurately describe the patient's condition.
Documentation should include a detailed history of the cough, evidence of asthma diagnosis, response to bronchodilator therapy, and any relevant spirometry results to support the diagnosis of cough variant asthma.
