Acute pulmonary blastomycosis

This code signifies an acute fungal infection of the lungs caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis. It presents with rapid onset respiratory symptoms, often mimicking bacterial pneumonia, and can disseminate if untreated. The infection is acquired through inhalation of fungal spores from the environment.

Apply this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of blastomycosis primarily affecting the lungs with an acute presentation. This typically includes positive fungal cultures, histopathology showing characteristic broad-based budding yeasts, or serological evidence in a patient presenting with acute respiratory distress, cough, and fever.

• Ensure documentation specifies "acute" pulmonary involvement to differentiate from chronic forms.
• Do not use for disseminated blastomycosis unless the pulmonary involvement is the sole or primary acute manifestation.
• Code any associated manifestations, such as skin lesions or osteomyelitis, separately if present.