Bagassosis

Bagassosis is an extrinsic allergic alveolitis (hypersensitivity pneumonitis) caused by exposure to thermophilic actinomycetes found in moldy sugarcane fibers (bagasse). It presents as an inflammatory lung disease, often with symptoms like cough, dyspnea, fever, and chills, typically occurring hours after exposure. Chronic exposure can lead to progressive pulmonary fibrosis.

This code is used when documentation clearly identifies lung disease resulting from exposure to bagasse. It is appropriate for both acute and chronic forms of bagassosis. Supporting documentation should include a history of exposure to sugarcane dust and clinical findings consistent with hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly links the lung condition to bagasse exposure; avoid coding based solely on symptoms.
• Differentiate from other forms of hypersensitivity pneumonitis; this code is specific to bagasse.
• Consider sequencing with codes for associated respiratory symptoms or complications, such as pulmonary fibrosis (J84.10) if present.