Simple chronic bronchitis

This code represents a persistent inflammation of the bronchial tubes, characterized by a chronic cough that produces sputum for at least three months a year, for two consecutive years, in the absence of other underlying lung diseases. It signifies a non-obstructive form of chronic bronchitis.

Use this code for patients diagnosed with chronic bronchitis where there is no mention of obstruction, emphysema, or other complicating factors. Documentation should clearly state "simple chronic bronchitis" or describe the characteristic chronic productive cough without evidence of airflow limitation.

• Do not use this code if the documentation specifies "obstructive" chronic bronchitis; refer to codes in the 491.2x series.
• Ensure the documentation supports the chronicity criteria (e.g., duration of cough).
• If emphysema is also present, a combination code from the 491.2x series or 492.8 may be more appropriate.