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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesJ04.10

J04.10

Acute tracheitis without obstruction

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 J04.10 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute tracheitis without obstruction.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute tracheitis without obstruction is an inflammatory condition affecting the trachea, often resulting from viral infections, bacterial infections, or irritants such as smoke or chemicals. Clinically, patients may present with a persistent cough, hoarseness, and difficulty breathing, particularly during exertion. The anatomy involved includes the trachea, which is the windpipe connecting the larynx to the bronchi, facilitating airflow to the lungs. Disease progression can vary; while many cases resolve spontaneously, severe inflammation may lead to complications such as airway obstruction or secondary infections. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical history, physical examination, and possibly imaging studies or bronchoscopy to assess the extent of inflammation. Laboratory tests may also be conducted to identify the causative agent, especially in cases suspected to be bacterial in origin. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and to prevent potential complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity
  • Treatment complexity
  • Documentation requirements
  • Coding specificity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors
  • Documentation gaps
  • Billing challenges

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pulmonology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Acute tracheitis can significantly impact patient quality of life, leading to increased healthcare utilization due to emergency visits and hospitalizations. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition helps in developing preventive strategies, particularly in populations at higher risk, such as those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Quality measures may include tracking the incidence of acute tracheitis and ensuring timely and appropriate treatment to reduce complications.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Acute tracheitis can significantly impact patient quality of life, leading to increased healthcare utilization due to emergency visits and hospitalizations. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition helps in developing preventive strategies, particularly in populations at higher risk, such as those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Quality measures may include tracking the incidence of acute tracheitis and ensuring timely and appropriate treatment to reduce complications.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include verifying the patient's insurance coverage for respiratory conditions and ensuring that all services provided are medically necessary. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate the medical necessity of the visit or treatment. Best practices include thorough documentation of symptoms, treatment plans, and follow-up care to mitigate audit risks and ensure proper reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for J00-J99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for J00-J99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by J04.10?

J04.10 covers acute tracheitis without obstruction, which may arise from viral infections like influenza, bacterial infections, or environmental irritants. It is characterized by inflammation of the trachea without significant airway narrowing.

When should J04.10 be used instead of related codes?

J04.10 should be used when the patient presents with acute tracheitis that does not involve obstruction. If there are signs of airway obstruction, J04.11 should be considered instead.

What documentation supports J04.10?

Documentation should include clinical findings such as cough, hoarseness, and any diagnostic tests performed. A clear description of the patient's symptoms, duration, and any treatments provided is essential to support the use of J04.10.