Tuberculosis of lung

This code identifies an active, infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis primarily affecting the pulmonary system. It signifies the presence of granulomatous inflammation and caseous necrosis within the lung tissue, leading to symptoms such as chronic cough, fever, weight loss, and hemoptysis.

Apply this code for confirmed cases of active pulmonary tuberculosis, whether primary or reactivated. Documentation should clearly indicate a diagnosis of tuberculosis localized to the lungs, often supported by positive sputum cultures, nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), or characteristic chest imaging findings (e.g., infiltrates, cavities).

• Distinguish from latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), which is coded separately (e.g., Z22.8).
• Always sequence this code first when it represents the primary reason for the encounter or hospitalization.
• Look for documentation specifying the organism if known, and consider additional codes for drug resistance if applicable (e.g., Z16.-).