A21.2 is a billable and specific ICD-10-CM code for Pulmonary tularemia.
Accurate documentation of A21.2 facilitates proper diagnosis, effective management, and ensures correct insurance billing. Moreover, it supports public health efforts and enables accurate reimbursement.
Purpose of This Guideline
This guideline explains:
- The official use of A21.2
- ICD-10-CM coding guidelines
- The historical background of this diagnosis code
What is the ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code for Pulmonary tularemia?
The ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for Pulmonary tularemia is A21.2.
Tularemia is a rare but serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Francisella tularensis. It is often transmitted to humans through tick or deer fly bites, contact with infected animals, or contaminated food, water, or air.
Pulmonary tularemia is a serious lung infection caused by Francisella tularensis. It occurs when a person breathes in the bacteria through dust, air, or infected droplets.
Symptoms include high fever, dry cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. It may also cause weakness, chills, and weight loss. The lungs are the main area affected.
It is more common in people who work with animals or handle soil. Diagnosis is made through chest X-ray, blood tests, and lab confirmation.
Treatment includes antibiotics such as streptomycin, gentamicin, or doxycycline. Early treatment is important to avoid severe illness and support full recovery.
Proper documentation using A21.2 ensures patients receive appropriate care and enables accurate healthcare reimbursement.
History Background of ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A21.2
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 Pulmonary tularemia was 021.2.This coding remained consistent from 1979 to 2015.
However, 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. Compared to the old system, ICD-10-CM offered a more complete and clear coding structure.
As a result, the shift from ICD-9-CM to ICD-10-CM improved how we record and understand diseases like Pulmonary tularemia .
Moreover, it helped healthcare providers give better care through improved documentation and analysis.
The 2025 edition of ICD-10-CM A21.2 became effective on October 1, 2024.
| Year | ICD-10-CM Code | Description |
| 2020 | A21.2 | No Change |
| 2021 | A21.2 | No Change |
| 2022 | A21.2 | No Change |
| 2023 | A21.2 | No Change |
| 2024 | A21.2 | No Change |
| 2025 | A21.2 | No Change |
Other ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Codes in A21
ICD-10-CM code A21 | Tularemia has following sub categories :
- A21 Tularemia.
- A21.0 Ulceroglandular tularemia
- A21.1 Oculoglandular tularemia
- A21.2 Pulmonary tularemia
- A21.3 Gastrointestinal tularemia
- A21.7 Generalized tularemia
- A21.8 Other forms of tularemia
- A21.9 Tularemia, unspecified
Final Thoughts
Proper coding plays a key role in diagnosing and managing Other Brucellosis. First, it ensures accurate clinical records. Moreover, it helps in planning effective treatment.
In addition, correct use of this code supports patient care and improves health outcomes. Therefore, understanding its purpose and application is important. Finally, it also enables proper billing and guarantees timely reimbursement for healthcare services..
