Pleural plaque
ICD-10 J92 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of pleural plaque.
Pleural plaques are localized fibrous thickenings of the pleura, typically associated with asbestos exposure. Clinically, patients may be asymptomatic, but some may experience respiratory symptoms such as cough or dyspnea. The anatomy involved includes the pleura, which is the double-layered membrane surrounding the lungs. Disease progression is generally slow, and while pleural plaques themselves are not malignant, they can indicate an increased risk for other asbestos-related diseases, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Diagnosis is often made through imaging studies such as chest X-rays or CT scans, which reveal characteristic calcified plaques on the pleura. A thorough occupational history is essential, as exposure to asbestos is the primary risk factor for developing pleural plaques. Differential diagnoses may include other pleural diseases, such as pleural effusion or mesothelioma, necessitating careful evaluation and imaging to confirm the presence of plaques.
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
J92 specifically covers pleural plaques resulting from asbestos exposure. It does not include other pleural diseases such as pleural effusions or malignancies.
J92 should be used when there is a confirmed diagnosis of pleural plaques, particularly in patients with a history of asbestos exposure. It is distinct from codes for pleural effusion or other pleural abnormalities.
Documentation should include a detailed occupational history indicating asbestos exposure, imaging studies showing pleural plaques, and any relevant respiratory symptoms or findings.
