A15.5 is a billable and specific ICD-10-CM code. Accurate documentation of A15.5 facilitates proper diagnosis, effective management, and correct reimbursement.
This guideline will provide the use, official coding guidelines, and historical background of A15.5.
What is the ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code for Tuberculosis of larynx, trachea and bronchus?
The ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for Tuberculosis of larynx, trachea and bronchus is A15.5.
Tuberculosis of the larynx, trachea, and bronchus is a rare form of TB affecting the upper airways, including the voice box (larynx), windpipe (trachea), and bronchial tubes.
Symptoms may include persistent cough, hoarseness, difficulty breathing, chest pain, and sometimes coughing up blood.
The infection is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, spread mainly through airborne droplets. Diagnosis is confirmed by imaging, sputum tests, and endoscopy.
Treatment involves a full course of anti-tuberculosis drugs, typically for six months or more. Early diagnosis and proper medication help prevent complications and transmission.
Proper documentation using A15.5 ensures patients receive appropriate care and enables accurate healthcare reimbursement.
Synonyms
- Tuberculosis (tb) bronchus
- Tuberculosis (tb) with laryngitis
- Tuberculosis of bronchus
- Tuberculous laryngitis
History Background of ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A15.5
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 larynx, trachea and bronchus is 011.34.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 larynx, trachea and bronchus.
The 2025 edition of ICD-10-CM A15.5 became effective on October 1, 2024.
| Year | ICD-10-CM Code | Description |
| 2020 | A15.5 | No Change |
| 2021 | A15.5 | No Change |
| 2022 | A15.5 | No Change |
| 2023 | A15.5 | No Change |
| 2024 | A15.5 | No Change |
| 2025 | A15.5 | No Change |
Other ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Codes in A15
ICD-10-CM code A15 | Respiratory tuberculosis has following sub categories including A15.5 :
- 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 A15.5 is essential for diagnosing and managing Tuberculosis of larynx, trachea and bronchus. 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.





