ICD-10 Code J94.0 – Chylous effusion (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J94.0 – Chylous effusion
What it is
J94.0 identifies chylous effusion, a buildup of lymphatic fluid in the pleural space. Use it when documentation specifically states chylous fluid or chylothorax-related effusion.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include pleural fluid that appears milky or triglyceride-rich, along with imaging or thoracentesis results confirming a chylous collection.
When to use this code
Use J94.0 when the provider documents chylous effusion, chylothorax, or a chylous pleural collection. It also fits cases confirmed by pleural fluid analysis or clear procedural notes describing chyle in the chest.
Check documentation when the record only mentions pleural effusion without chylous detail. Code the specific condition documented by the clinician, especially if the effusion is postoperative, traumatic, or related to another disease.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonchylous pleural effusions, empyema, or hemothorax. If the chart does not confirm chylous fluid, choose a more specific or general effusion code.
Coding tip
Look for explicit wording such as “chylous” or “chylothorax” in provider notes or procedure reports before assigning J94.0.