A15.6
Tuberculous pleurisy
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Inclusion Terms
- Tuberculosis of pleura Tuberculous empyema
Excludes Type 1
- primary respiratory tuberculosis (A15.7)
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Tuberculous pleurisy is a condition caused by an infection of the pleura—the thin lining surrounding the lungs—by the bacteria responsible for tuberculosis. This disease often develops when tuberculosis bacteria spread from a primary site, such as the lungs, to the pleural space. It is characterized by inflammation and buildup of fluid, which can cause chest discomfort and breathing difficulties. Recognizing and understanding this condition is important for timely management and treatment.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, commonly spreading from active tuberculosis elsewhere in the body Spread of bacteria through the bloodstream or lymphatic system Inhalation of airborne tuberculosis bacteria leading to primary infection and subsequent spread Complication of untreated or inadequately treated tuberculosis Rarely, pneumonia caused by tuberculosis bacteria that extends into the pleural space
Key Symptoms: Chest pain, often sharp and worsening with breathing or coughing Persistent cough, sometimes with blood-tinged sputum Shortness of breath due to fluid accumulation in the pleural space Fever and night sweats Fatigue and general feeling of illness Weight loss and decreased appetite
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy involves several steps:
Treatment Protocols: Treatment typically involves a combination of anti-tuberculosis medications prescribed for several months. The key components include:
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is A15.6 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, A15.6 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report A15.6?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Tuberculous pleurisy and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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