Knowledge Base Article

Q:

What is the appropriate diagnosis code for Pleural Effusion when there is documentation of Pleural Effusion with CHF and the Pleural Effusion requires a Thoracentesis?

A:

Assign J91.8, Pleural Effusion in Other Conditions Classified Elsewhere, when the Pleural Effusion with CHF requires treatment, such as a Thoracentesis or diagnostic testing. Typically, Pleural Effusion with CHF would not be reported because it is minimal and does not require specific treatment. Previously, in ICD-9-CM, we used 511.9, Unspecified Pleural Effusion. Resource: Coding Clinic, Second Quarter 2015, page 15