Pulmonary hemorrhage

This code signifies bleeding originating from the respiratory tract, specifically within the lungs. It indicates the presence of blood in the airways, which can manifest as hemoptysis or be identified through imaging or bronchoscopy.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates bleeding from the pulmonary vasculature or lung parenchyma. This includes cases of hemoptysis where the source is confirmed to be pulmonary, or when imaging (e.g., CT scan) reveals intrapulmonary hemorrhage.

• Always seek to identify the underlying cause of the hemorrhage (e.g., trauma, infection, malignancy) and code it as a primary diagnosis if known.
• Distinguish from epistaxis or upper GI bleeding that may present as hemoptysis; ensure the source is definitively pulmonary.
• Consider additional codes for associated conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or lung cancer, if present and documented.