ICD-10 Code J86 – Pyothorax (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J86 – Pyothorax
What it is
J86 identifies pyothorax, a pus-filled pleural infection in the chest cavity. Use it when documentation shows empyema or infected pleural fluid.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include pleural infection, purulent drainage, chest pain, fever, and imaging or procedure evidence of infected pleural space.
When to use this code
Use J86 when the provider documents pyothorax, empyema, or infected pleural effusion. It may also fit after drainage procedures when the diagnosis is confirmed in the record.
Code this only when the pleural space infection is clearly stated. If the note is ambiguous, check documentation before assigning the code.
Do not use for
Do not use J86 for uncomplicated pleural effusion, pneumothorax, or general pneumonia without pleural infection. Check documentation if the record does not clearly confirm pyothorax.
Coding tip
Look for explicit provider wording such as “pyothorax” or “empyema” before coding J86.