ICD-10 Code J98.2 – Interstitial Emphysema (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J98.2 – Interstitial emphysema
What it is
Interstitial emphysema means air has escaped into the connective tissue spaces of the lung or mediastinum. It is usually documented as a radiologic or clinical finding rather than a primary disease.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. You may see chest pain, shortness of breath, subcutaneous crepitus, or imaging evidence of air tracking outside the normal airways.
When to use this code
Use J98.2 when the record specifically documents interstitial emphysema, including incidental imaging findings or complications of lung injury. Code it when the provider identifies air in the interstitial tissues and does not assign a more specific diagnosis.
Check documentation if the note describes pneumothorax, mediastinal emphysema, or another air-leak condition instead. Confirm the exact anatomic site and whether the finding is current or historical.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for simple hyperinflation, emphysema due to COPD, or pneumothorax without interstitial air. If the chart is unclear, check documentation.
Coding tip
Assign J98.2 only when the provider explicitly documents interstitial emphysema or an equivalent air-leak finding.