ICD-10 Code J93.1 – Other spontaneous pneumothorax (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J93.1 – Other spontaneous pneumothorax
What it is
J93.1 identifies a spontaneous pneumothorax that occurs without trauma or a procedure and does not fit a more specific spontaneous type. It means air has entered the pleural space, causing partial or complete lung collapse.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include sudden pleuritic chest pain, shortness of breath, reduced breath sounds, and an abnormal chest imaging result confirming pneumothorax.
When to use this code
Use J93.1 when the record clearly documents a spontaneous pneumothorax and the provider does not specify a more exact subtype. It also fits cases described as “other spontaneous” or when available details do not support another J93 category. Check documentation for any underlying lung disease or laterality if reported.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for traumatic pneumothorax, iatrogenic pneumothorax, or postoperative pneumothorax. If the chart identifies a specific spontaneous subtype instead, code that diagnosis rather than J93.1.
Coding tip
Code only from provider wording and imaging confirmation; if the type is unclear, check documentation before assigning J93.1.