Acute bronchitis

This code represents an acute inflammation of the bronchial tree, typically characterized by cough, often with sputum production, and sometimes accompanied by fever or chest discomfort. It is usually self-limiting and often follows a viral upper respiratory infection.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of acute bronchitis, without evidence of pneumonia, asthma exacerbation, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation. Supporting documentation includes physician notes detailing acute onset of cough, absence of infiltrates on chest X-ray (if performed), and a limited duration of symptoms.

• Differentiate carefully from acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis (491.21) or acute bronchiolitis (466.1).
• Do not use if pneumonia is also diagnosed; pneumonia takes precedence.
• Consider an additional code for the causative organism if identified and documented (e.g., viral, bacterial).