Acute epiglottitis with obstruction

This code signifies an acute inflammation of the epiglottis, a cartilage flap that covers the windpipe, which has progressed to cause airway obstruction. This is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical intervention due to the risk of respiratory arrest.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates acute epiglottitis with evidence of airway compromise, such as stridor, dyspnea, or respiratory distress. This diagnosis is typically made based on clinical presentation and confirmed by direct visualization of the swollen epiglottis.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "with obstruction" to support this specific code.
• Do not use this code for acute epiglottitis without documented obstruction; a different code applies.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter and treatment.