ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for lung abscess
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Abscess (connective tissue) (embolic) (fistulous) (infective) (metastatic) (multiple) (pernicious) (pyogenic) (septic) › lung (miliary) (putrid)”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding lung abscess
The ICD-10-CM code for lung abscess is J85.2 (Abscess of lung without pneumonia). The official index lists 4 more specific codes, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on J85.2.
Within J85, choose J85.2 (Abscess of lung without pneumonia) only when documentation doesn't support a more specific option: gangrene and necrosis of lung (J85.0), abscess of lung with pneumonia (J85.1) and abscess of mediastinum (J85.3).
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 lung abscess codes (official index)
Common questions about lung abscess ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for lung abscess?
- J85.2 — Abscess of lung without pneumonia. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: J85.1, A06.5, A06.6, A06.5.
What is the ICD-10 code for amebic lung abscess?
- A06.5 — Amebic lung abscess.
Is J85.2 billable?
- Yes. J85.2 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can J85.2 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict J85.2 as a principal diagnosis.
Is J85.2 a CC or MCC?
- J85.2 is an MCC (major complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.