ICD-10 Code J45.32 – Mild persistent asthma with status asthmaticus (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J45.32 – Mild persistent asthma with status asthmaticus
What it is
This code identifies mild persistent asthma when the patient is also in status asthmaticus, meaning a severe asthma flare that does not quickly improve. Use it for documented mild persistent asthma with an acute, prolonged exacerbation.
Clinical signs
Clinical features may include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and cough that are worse than usual and difficult to relieve. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for evidence of status asthmaticus.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents both mild persistent asthma and status asthmaticus in the same encounter. It is appropriate for an asthma attack requiring urgent evaluation or hospital care when the status asthmaticus is clearly stated.
Do not infer status asthmaticus from severity alone. If the record only says asthma exacerbation or asthma attack, check documentation before assigning J45.32.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for mild persistent asthma without status asthmaticus. Also avoid it when the note documents a different asthma severity or only an unspecified exacerbation.
Coding tip
Code J45.32 only when both the asthma severity and status asthmaticus are explicitly documented.