Malt workers' lung

This code represents an extrinsic allergic alveolitis, specifically hypersensitivity pneumonitis, caused by exposure to mold spores (typically Aspergillus clavatus) found in malted barley. It is an inflammatory lung condition resulting from an immune response to inhaled organic dusts, leading to symptoms like cough, dyspnea, and fever. Chronic exposure can lead to pulmonary fibrosis.

Use this code for patients diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonitis directly attributed to occupational exposure in malt production or related industries. Documentation should clearly state the patient's occupation, exposure history to malt dust, and a confirmed diagnosis of extrinsic allergic alveolitis. This diagnosis is often supported by lung function tests, imaging, and sometimes bronchoalveolar lavage.

• Ensure documentation specifies "malt workers' lung" or clearly links hypersensitivity pneumonitis to malt exposure.
• Consider co-coding with an occupational exposure code (e.g., V15.85 for occupational exposure to dusts) if further specificity is needed.
• Differentiate from other forms of hypersensitivity pneumonitis where the specific allergen is not malt (e.g., farmer's lung, bird fancier's lung).