ICD-10 Code J93.8 – Other pneumothorax and air leak (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J93.8 – Other pneumothorax and air leak
What it is
J93.8 identifies an abnormal collection of air in the pleural space or another air leak not classified elsewhere. Use it when the record describes a pneumothorax or air leak that does not fit a more specific ICD-10-CM code.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly documented findings include sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, decreased breath sounds, or imaging evidence of pleural air.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents an other, unspecified, or atypical pneumothorax/air leak and no more specific type is named. It may also apply when the chart notes an air leak condition that is not separately classified. Check whether the record supports a traumatic, spontaneous, or postoperative code instead.
Do not use for
Do not use J93.8 when documentation clearly identifies a specific pneumothorax type with its own code. Avoid it if the condition is better described by another cause or postoperative complication. Check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the most specific pneumothorax or air leak term documented, and query if the note only says “air leak” without enough detail.