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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 1: Certain infectious and parasitic diseasesA15.5

A15.5

Billable

Tuberculosis of larynx, trachea and bronchus

Chapter 1:Certain infectious and parasitic diseases

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 A15.5 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of tuberculosis of larynx, trachea and bronchus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Tuberculosis (TB) of the larynx, trachea, and bronchus is a rare but serious manifestation of pulmonary tuberculosis. It occurs when Mycobacterium tuberculosis infects the upper respiratory tract, leading to inflammation and potential obstruction of the airway. Symptoms may include hoarseness, cough, difficulty breathing, and stridor. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as chest X-rays, and microbiological tests including sputum smear and culture for acid-fast bacilli. In some cases, laryngoscopy may be performed to visualize the larynx directly. Treatment usually involves a multi-drug regimen over an extended period, often including isoniazid, rifampin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide. Monitoring for drug resistance is crucial, as TB can develop resistance to standard treatments, complicating management. Public health measures, including contact tracing and isolation of infectious patients, are essential to prevent the spread of TB, particularly in high-risk populations. Effective management requires a multidisciplinary approach, including pulmonologists, infectious disease specialists, and public health officials.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between pulmonary and extrapulmonary TB
  • Need for accurate documentation of symptoms and diagnostic tests
  • Potential for drug-resistant TB complicating treatment
  • Variability in presentation and severity of symptoms

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of diagnostic tests performed
  • Failure to document treatment adherence and monitoring
  • Lack of evidence for drug resistance testing
  • Insufficient detail on patient symptoms and clinical findings

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pulmonology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on respiratory symptoms, diagnostic imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic cough, hoarseness, or stridor; patients with known TB history requiring airway evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of airway management and potential need for surgical intervention in severe cases.

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive documentation of TB treatment regimens, drug resistance testing, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with confirmed TB requiring long-term management and monitoring for drug resistance.

Billing Considerations

Coordination with public health for contact tracing and reporting.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use A15.5 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, treatment, and any complications
  • Include relevant clinical findings and diagnostic tests performed to support the coding decision

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use A15.5 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

31575CPT Code

Laryngoscopy, flexible

Clinical Scenario

Used to visualize the larynx in patients suspected of having laryngeal TB.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for laryngoscopy and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Pulmonologists and ENT specialists should collaborate on cases.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of TB cases, improving the ability to track and manage the disease. A15.5 provides a clear distinction for laryngeal, tracheal, and bronchial involvement, which is critical for treatment and public health reporting.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of TB cases, improving the ability to track and manage the disease. A15.5 provides a clear distinction for laryngeal, tracheal, and bronchial involvement, which is critical for treatment and public health reporting.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of TB cases, improving the ability to track and manage the disease. A15.5 provides a clear distinction for laryngeal, tracheal, and bronchial involvement, which is critical for treatment and public health reporting.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Tuberculosis (TB) Fact Sheet

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Tuberculosis (TB) Fact Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of tuberculosis of the larynx?

Common symptoms include hoarseness, cough, difficulty breathing, and stridor. Patients may also experience throat pain and difficulty swallowing.