Viral pneumonia, unspecified

This code signifies an acute inflammatory condition of the lung parenchyma caused by a viral infection, where the specific viral agent is not identified. It presents with symptoms such as cough, fever, and shortness of breath, and is often diagnosed based on clinical presentation and imaging findings.

Use this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of viral pneumonia but does not specify the causative virus (e.g., influenza, RSV, adenovirus). This code is appropriate when the provider explicitly states "viral pneumonia, unspecified" or "presumed viral pneumonia" without further viral identification.

• Avoid using this code if a specific viral etiology is documented; instead, code to the specific viral pneumonia (e.g., influenza with pneumonia).
• Ensure the documentation clearly supports a diagnosis of pneumonia, not just bronchitis or an upper respiratory infection.
• This code is often used when viral testing is not performed or results are pending/inconclusive at the time of coding.