ICD-10 Code J45.22 – Mild intermittent asthma with status asthmaticus (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J45.22 – Mild intermittent asthma with status asthmaticus
What it is
This code identifies mild intermittent asthma when the patient is having status asthmaticus, a severe asthma flare that does not respond promptly to usual relief measures. Use it when the documentation clearly links both the asthma severity and the acute status asthmaticus episode.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include acute wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing with significant airflow obstruction. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially when the record describes a prolonged or severe asthma exacerbation.
When to use this code
Use J45.22 when the provider documents mild intermittent asthma and also states status asthmaticus. It is appropriate for encounters focused on the acute severe episode, whether in the emergency department, inpatient setting, or urgent follow-up after stabilization.
If the record only says asthma exacerbation or asthma attack, check documentation before assigning this code. Make sure the severity and the status asthmaticus diagnosis are both supported in the note.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for asthma without status asthmaticus, or when the severity is documented differently. Do not assume it from wheezing alone; check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the documented asthma severity exactly as written, and verify that status asthmaticus is explicitly stated before reporting J45.22.