ICD-10 Code J85.1 – Abscess of lung with pneumonia (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J85.1 – Abscess of lung with pneumonia
What it is
J85.1 identifies a lung abscess occurring with pneumonia. Use it when documentation shows a localized pus-filled cavity in the lung associated with an active pneumonic process.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include cough, fever, sputum production, and chest imaging showing a cavitary lung lesion. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use J85.1 when the provider documents abscess of the lung with pneumonia, or clearly links the abscess to pneumonia. It fits cases where imaging or clinical assessment supports both conditions together. Check documentation if the record only mentions pneumonia, a lung abscess, or a cavitary lesion without a stated relationship.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pneumonia without abscess, or for a lung abscess not documented as associated with pneumonia. Do not assume the cause or relationship; check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm the provider states both lung abscess and pneumonia, because the combination is what supports J85.1.