Encounter for screening for respiratory tuberculosis

This code signifies an encounter focused on identifying the presence of respiratory tuberculosis in asymptomatic individuals. It is used when a patient presents for a preventive check to detect latent or active pulmonary TB before symptoms manifest.

Apply this code when a patient undergoes a screening test for tuberculosis, such as a PPD skin test, IGRA (interferon-gamma release assay), or a screening chest X-ray, without any current signs or symptoms of the disease. This is common for occupational health screenings, immigration requirements, or contact tracing of a known TB case.

• Do not use this code if the patient presents with symptoms suggestive of active TB; instead, code the signs/symptoms or confirmed diagnosis.
• This code is for the encounter for screening itself, not for the results of the screening test.
• If the screening test is positive, additional codes for the positive finding (e.g., R76.11 for abnormal PPD) and further diagnostic workup would be reported.