Centrilobular emphysema

This code represents a specific type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) characterized by the destruction and enlargement of the respiratory bronchioles, primarily in the upper lobes of the lungs. It is strongly associated with cigarette smoking and often co-occurs with chronic bronchitis.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of centrilobular emphysema. This diagnosis is typically made based on imaging studies (e.g., CT scan) showing characteristic changes, often in conjunction with pulmonary function tests indicating airflow obstruction.

• Differentiate from panlobular emphysema (J43.1), which involves uniform destruction of the acinus.
• Always code any associated chronic bronchitis (J42) or other COPD manifestations.
• Ensure documentation specifies the type of emphysema; if unspecified, use J43.9.