ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for Chylothorax
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Chylothorax (nonfilarial)”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding Chylothorax
The ICD-10-CM code for Chylothorax is J94.0 (Chylous effusion). The official index lists 1 more specific code, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on J94.0.
Within J94 (other pleural conditions), J94.0 is specifically for Chylous effusion. Related codes cover Fibrothorax (J94.1), hemothorax (J94.2), other specified pleural conditions (J94.8) and pleural condition, unspecified (J94.9).
As a secondary diagnosis it is a CC (complication or comorbidity), which can move an inpatient stay into the "with CC" MS-DRG of its family, unless the principal diagnosis excludes it.
In MS-DRG v44.0, it is part of the grouping logic for DRG 186 (Pleural Effusion with MCC, relative weight 1.5835), DRG 187 (Pleural Effusion with CC, relative weight 1.0001), DRG 188 (Pleural Effusion without CC/MCC, relative weight 0.6654), DRG 791 (Prematurity with Major Problems, relative weight 4.1075) and DRG 793 (Full Term Neonate with Major Problems, relative weight 4.2195), in MDC 04 (Diseases and Disorders of the Respiratory System) and MDC 15 (Newborns and Other Neonates with Conditions Originating in the Perinatal Period), as a principal or secondary diagnosis. The DRG a claim lands in depends on the principal diagnosis, procedures and any CC/MCC secondary diagnoses.
More specific Chylothorax codes (official index)
- filarial B74.9 — Filariasis, unspecified
Common questions about Chylothorax ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for Chylothorax?
- J94.0 — Chylous effusion. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: B74.9.
What is the ICD-10 code for filarial chylothorax?
- B74.9 — Filariasis, unspecified.
Is J94.0 billable?
- Yes. J94.0 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can J94.0 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict J94.0 as a principal diagnosis.
Is J94.0 a CC or MCC?
- J94.0 is a CC (complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.