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J68.0 Respiratory
Updated March 2026

Chemical bronchitis

ICD-10 Code: J68.0 · Body Part: Head/Brain (TBI)

QME Evaluation Process

PFTs, chest imaging, chemical exposure documentation. Chapter 5 respiratory impairment. Evaluate acute vs chronic chemical inhalation injury.

Typical Impairment Rating

10-35% WPI based on PFT impairment

AMA Guides Edition

5th Edition

Common Treatments

+ Bronchodilators
+ Inhaled corticosteroids
+ Exposure avoidance
+ Pulmonary rehabilitation

Related Conditions

Body Part Guide

Head/Brain (TBI) Evaluation Guide

Impairment rating methods, common conditions, and QME evaluation protocols

View Guide →

QME Specialties for Chemical bronchitis

Find a QME Specialist

Browse QME-certified physicians who evaluate chemical bronchitis and related head/brain (tbi) conditions in California.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chemical bronchitis (J68.0)?

Chemical bronchitis is an ICD-10 diagnosis code (J68.0) 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 J68.0 rated for impairment?

The typical whole person impairment (WPI) range for Chemical bronchitis is 10-35% WPI based on PFT impairment. 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 J68.0?

PFTs, chest imaging, chemical exposure documentation. Chapter 5 respiratory impairment. Evaluate acute vs chronic chemical inhalation injury.

What treatments are common for Chemical bronchitis?

Common treatments for Chemical bronchitis include Bronchodilators, Inhaled corticosteroids, Exposure avoidance, Pulmonary rehabilitation. Treatment appropriateness and outcomes are considered during the QME evaluation when determining permanent and stationary status and apportionment.