Pneumoconiosis due to asbestos and other mineral fibers
ICD-10 J61 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pneumoconiosis due to asbestos and other mineral fibers.
J61 refers to pneumoconiosis due to asbestos and other mineral fibers, a type of lung disease caused by the inhalation of harmful mineral dust, particularly asbestos. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as chronic cough, dyspnea (shortness of breath), and chest pain, often developing years after exposure. The disease primarily affects the lung parenchyma, leading to fibrosis, pleural thickening, and potentially malignant transformations such as mesothelioma. Disease progression can vary, with some patients remaining asymptomatic for decades before exhibiting significant respiratory impairment. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough occupational history, imaging studies such as chest X-rays or CT scans, and pulmonary function tests to assess lung capacity and function. A definitive diagnosis may require a biopsy to identify asbestos fibers in lung tissue. Early detection is crucial for management and to mitigate further exposure to asbestos and other harmful fibers.
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
J61 covers pneumoconiosis specifically due to asbestos and other mineral fibers, including asbestosis and related lung diseases. It is characterized by lung inflammation and fibrosis resulting from chronic exposure to asbestos.
J61 should be used when there is a confirmed diagnosis of pneumoconiosis due to asbestos exposure, particularly when the patient's occupational history indicates significant exposure to asbestos or similar mineral fibers.
Documentation should include a detailed occupational history, imaging results showing characteristic lung changes, pulmonary function test results, and any relevant biopsy findings confirming asbestos-related lung disease.
