Graphite fibrosis (of lung)
ICD-10 J63.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of graphite fibrosis (of lung).
Graphite fibrosis of the lung, classified under pneumoconiosis, is a chronic lung condition resulting from the inhalation of graphite dust. Clinically, patients may present with progressive dyspnea, chronic cough, and reduced exercise tolerance. The disease primarily affects lung parenchyma, leading to fibrotic changes that impair gas exchange. As the condition progresses, patients may develop pulmonary hypertension and cor pulmonale due to chronic hypoxia. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough occupational history, imaging studies such as chest X-rays or CT scans revealing characteristic patterns of lung fibrosis, and pulmonary function tests demonstrating restrictive lung disease. A definitive diagnosis may require a lung biopsy to assess the extent of fibrosis and rule out other interstitial lung diseases. Early recognition and management are crucial to slowing disease progression and improving quality of life.
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
J63.3 specifically covers graphite fibrosis, a form of pneumoconiosis caused by inhaling graphite dust. It is characterized by lung fibrosis and respiratory symptoms resulting from occupational exposure.
J63.3 should be used when there is a confirmed diagnosis of graphite fibrosis due to occupational exposure to graphite dust, differentiating it from other pneumoconiosis codes like J60 (coal worker's pneumoconiosis) or J61 (asbestosis).
Documentation should include a detailed occupational history, imaging studies showing lung fibrosis, pulmonary function test results, and any relevant biopsy findings to confirm the diagnosis.
