ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for Empyema
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Empyema (acute) (chest) (double) (pleura) (supradiaphragmatic) (thorax)”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding Empyema
The ICD-10-CM code for Empyema is J86.9 (Pyothorax without fistula). The official index lists 4 more specific codes, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on J86.9.
Within J86, choose J86.9 (without fistula) only when documentation doesn't support a more specific option: with fistula (J86.0).
Use an additional code (B95-B97) to identify infectious agent.
As a secondary diagnosis it is an MCC (major complication or comorbidity), which can move an inpatient stay into the highest-paying "with MCC" MS-DRG of its family, unless the principal diagnosis excludes it.
More specific Empyema codes (official index)
- with fistula J86.0 — Pyothorax with fistula
- accessory sinus (chronic)
- antrum (chronic)
- brain (any part)
- ethmoidal (chronic) (sinus)
- extradural
- frontal (chronic) (sinus)
- gallbladder K81.0 — Acute cholecystitis
- mastoid (process) (acute)
- maxilla, maxillary M27.2 — Inflammatory conditions of jaws
- sinus (chronic)
- nasal sinus (chronic)
- sinus (accessory) (chronic) (nasal)
- sphenoidal (sinus) (chronic)
- subarachnoid
- subdural
- tuberculous A15.6 — Tuberculous pleurisy
- ureter
- ventricular
Common questions about Empyema ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for Empyema?
- J86.9 — Pyothorax without fistula. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: J86.0, K81.0, M27.2, A15.6.
What is the ICD-10 code for gallbladder empyema?
- K81.0 — Acute cholecystitis.
What is the ICD-10 code for tuberculous empyema?
- A15.6 — Tuberculous pleurisy.
Is J86.9 billable?
- Yes. J86.9 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can J86.9 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict J86.9 as a principal diagnosis.
Is J86.9 a CC or MCC?
- J86.9 is an MCC (major complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.