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Pneumothorax, unspecified

ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- **Pneumothorax, unspecified**
- Commonly referred to as a "collapsed lung."

#### Summary
- Pneumothorax is a condition where air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall, causing the lung to collapse. This can lead to difficulty breathing and chest pain.

#### Causes
- Causes may include chest injury, lung disease, ruptured air blisters, or mechanical ventilation. Sometimes it occurs without a clear reason, termed spontaneous pneumothorax.

#### Risk Factors
- Smoking, having a family history of pneumothorax, underlying lung diseases such as COPD, cystic fibrosis, or pneumonia, and high-altitude or scuba diving activities increase risk.

#### Symptoms
- Sudden chest pain and shortness of breath are the primary symptoms. Other signs can include a rapid heart rate, cough, and fatigue.

#### Diagnosis
- Initially diagnosed through a physical examination and confirmed with imaging tests such as chest X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasound.

#### Treatment Options
- Treatments range from watchful waiting for minor cases, to needle aspiration or chest tube insertion for removing the air, to surgery in recurrent or severe cases.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Most people recover fully with appropriate treatment. Regular follow-ups ensure no recurrence and that the lung is functioning properly.

#### Complications
- Potential complications include respiratory failure, recurrent pneumothorax, and persistent air leak, which can lead to further lung damage.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Avoid smoking, manage lung health diligently, and seek advice on safe diving practices. For those with a history of pneumothorax, avoid activities that cause pressure changes.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing sudden chest pain or difficulty breathing, as these could be symptoms of a pneumothorax.

#### Additional Resources
- American Lung Association (www.lung.org)
- British Lung Foundation (www.blf.org.uk)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure to differentiate between primary spontaneous pneumothorax, secondary pneumothorax, and traumatic pneumothorax when coding.
- Verify documentation specifies "unspecified" if detailed information is unavailable.

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