Abnormal histolog findings in specimens from resp org/thrx

This code signifies the presence of unusual or atypical cellular structures identified during microscopic examination of tissue samples obtained from the respiratory system (e.g., lung, bronchus, trachea) or thoracic cavity. These findings are not yet definitively diagnosed as a specific disease but deviate from normal histology, prompting further investigation.

Apply this code when pathology reports indicate abnormal, non-specific histological findings from biopsies or resections of respiratory organs or intrathoracic structures, without a definitive diagnosis of malignancy, inflammation, or other specific condition. Documentation must clearly state "abnormal histology," "atypical cells," or similar non-diagnostic findings from a pathology report.

• Do not use this code if a definitive diagnosis (e.g., carcinoma, pneumonia, granuloma) is provided in the pathology report; instead, code the specific diagnosis.
• This code is often a temporary holding code while awaiting further diagnostic workup or a final pathology report.
• Sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when the abnormal finding is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it's an incidental finding during workup for another condition.