ICD-10 Code J18.2 – Hypostatic pneumonia, unspecified organism (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J18.2 – Hypostatic pneumonia, unspecified organism
What it is
Hypostatic pneumonia is a lung infection that develops in dependent areas of the lungs, usually when a patient is immobile or bedridden. The organism is not specified in this code.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include cough, fever, shortness of breath, and abnormal lung sounds in a patient with prolonged inactivity or poor ventilation.
When to use this code
Use J18.2 when the provider documents hypostatic pneumonia and does not identify the causative organism. It fits cases where the pneumonia is linked to immobility, such as prolonged bedrest or severe debility. If the record names a specific pathogen, code that diagnosis instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pneumonia with a documented organism, aspiration pneumonia, or noninfectious lung conditions. Check documentation if the provider uses “hypostatic” loosely without confirming pneumonia.
Coding tip
Confirm both the hypostatic nature and the unspecified organism wording before assigning J18.2.