Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with (acute) exacerbation
ICD-10 Code: J44.1 · Body Part: Head/Brain (TBI)
QME Evaluation Process
PFTs (FEV1, FVC, DLCO), imaging, smoking and occupational exposure history. Chapter 5 respiratory impairment. Apportionment between smoking and occupational dust/fume exposure.
Typical Impairment Rating
15-65% WPI based on GOLD staging and PFT results
AMA Guides Edition
5th Edition
Common Treatments
Related Conditions
Body Part Guide
Head/Brain (TBI) Evaluation Guide
Impairment rating methods, common conditions, and QME evaluation protocols
QME Specialties for Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with (acute) exacerbation
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What is Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with (acute) exacerbation (J44.1)?
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with (acute) exacerbation is an ICD-10 diagnosis code (J44.1) classified under Respiratory conditions. It affects the Head/Brain (TBI) and is commonly encountered in California workers' compensation claims. QME physicians evaluate this condition using AMA Guides 5th Edition protocols.
How is J44.1 rated for impairment?
The typical whole person impairment (WPI) range for Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with (acute) exacerbation is 15-65% WPI based on GOLD staging and PFT results. The exact rating depends on clinical findings, imaging, and the evaluation method (DRE or ROM) chosen by the QME physician per AMA Guides 5th Edition.
What is the QME evaluation process for J44.1?
PFTs (FEV1, FVC, DLCO), imaging, smoking and occupational exposure history. Chapter 5 respiratory impairment. Apportionment between smoking and occupational dust/fume exposure.
What treatments are common for Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with (acute) exacerbation?
Common treatments for Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with (acute) exacerbation include Bronchodilators, Inhaled corticosteroids, Pulmonary rehabilitation, Supplemental oxygen, Lung volume reduction surgery. Treatment appropriateness and outcomes are considered during the QME evaluation when determining permanent and stationary status and apportionment.