A15.4 is a billable and specific ICD-10-CM code. Accurate documentation of A15.4 facilitates proper diagnosis, effective management, and correct reimbursement.
This guideline will provide the use, official coding guidelines, and historical background of A15.4.
What is the ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code for Tuberculosis of intrathoracic lymph nodes?
The ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for Tuberculosis of intrathoracic lymph nodes is A15.4.
Tuberculosis of intrathoracic lymph nodes is a form of TB that affects the lymph nodes inside the chest, particularly around the lungs and airways. It is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, usually spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Common symptoms include persistent cough, chest pain, fever, weight loss, and night sweats. In some cases, swollen lymph nodes can press on airways, causing breathing difficulties. Diagnosis is made through imaging, skin or blood tests, and biopsy if needed.
Treatment includes a combination of anti-tuberculosis medications taken over several months to fully eliminate the infection. Early diagnosis and full treatment are important to prevent complications and transmission.
Proper documentation using A15.4 ensures patients receive appropriate care and enables accurate healthcare reimbursement.
Synonyms
- Tuberculosis (tb) with pleurisy
History Background of ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A15.4
The ICD-9-CM system, first introduced in 1979, provided the initial framework for coding diseases and health-related conditions in the United States.
The ICD-9-CM diagnosis code for Tuberculosis of intrathoracic lymph nodes is 012.1.This coding remained consistent from 1979 to 2015.
While the ICD-9-CM system offered a basic approach to disease classification, modern healthcare needs more detail and specificity.
To address this, the ICD-10-CM system was launched in 2015, introducing a more comprehensive and accurate coding structure.
The transition from ICD-9-CM to ICD-10-CM significantly improved the ability to document and analyze conditions such as Tuberculosis of intrathoracic lymph nodes.
The 2025 edition of ICD-10-CM A15.4 became effective on October 1, 2024.
| Year | ICD-10-CM Code | Description |
| 2020 | A15.4 | No Change |
| 2021 | A15.4 | No Change |
| 2022 | A15.4 | No Change |
| 2023 | A15.4 | No Change |
| 2024 | A15.4 | No Change |
| 2025 | A15.4 | No Change |
Other ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Codes in A15
ICD-10-CM code A15 | Respiratory tuberculosis has following sub categories including A15.4 :
- A15 Respiratory tuberculosis
- A15.0 Tuberculosis of lung
- A15.4 Tuberculosis of intrathoracic lymph nodes
- A15.5 Tuberculosis of larynx, trachea and bronchus
- A15.6 Tuberculous pleurisy
- A15.7 Primary respiratory tuberculosis
- A15.8 Other respiratory tuberculosis
- A15.9 Respiratory tuberculosis unspecified
Final Thought
Proper coding of A15.4 is essential for diagnosing and managing Tuberculosis of intrathoracic lymph nodes. A clear understanding of its History, and correct usage enhances medical documentation and ensures effective treatment, patient care, supports healthcare planning, and guarantees proper reimbursement for medical services.
