ICD-10 Code J68.0 – Bronchitis and pneumonitis due to chemicals, gases, fumes and vapors (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J68.0 – Bronchitis and pneumonitis due to chemicals, gases, fumes and vapors
What it is
J68.0 identifies inflammation of the bronchi and lung tissue caused by inhaling chemicals, gases, fumes, or vapors. Use it when documentation links the respiratory condition directly to a toxic inhalational exposure.
Clinical signs
Patients may present with cough, shortness of breath, chest irritation, wheezing, or other acute respiratory symptoms after exposure. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the specific inhaled agent and diagnosis.
When to use this code
Use J68.0 when the record clearly states bronchitis or pneumonitis due to a chemical, gas, fume, or vapor exposure. It fits occupational, environmental, or accidental inhalation events when the provider documents causation. Check documentation if the note only describes irritation without a diagnosed bronchitis or pneumonitis.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for infectious bronchitis, asthma, or nonspecific respiratory irritation without a documented chemical cause. If the exposure is mentioned but the diagnosis is different, code the documented condition instead.
Coding tip
Verify both the respiratory diagnosis and the inhalational exposure are documented before assigning J68.0.