Hypersensitivity pneumonitis due to unspecified organic dust

This code signifies an inflammatory lung disease resulting from an allergic reaction to inhaled organic dusts, where the specific type of dust is not identified. It involves an immune-mediated response in the alveoli and small airways, leading to symptoms like cough, dyspnea, and fatigue. This condition is also known as extrinsic allergic alveolitis.

Use this code when a patient presents with symptoms and diagnostic findings consistent with hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and the medical record indicates exposure to an organic dust but does not specify the exact allergen. This diagnosis is often supported by imaging (e.g., ground-glass opacities, centrilobular nodules on HRCT), pulmonary function tests showing restrictive patterns, and a history of environmental exposure.

• Ensure documentation clearly states "hypersensitivity pneumonitis" and "unspecified organic dust" or similar phrasing indicating the allergen is unknown.
• Avoid using this code if the specific organic dust (e.g., mold, bird droppings, animal proteins) is identified; instead, use a more specific J67.- code.
• Consider sequencing this code after any acute respiratory failure (J96.-) or other acute conditions if they are the primary reason for the encounter.