Skip to content
Dx

ICD-10-CM 2027

ICD-10 code for mediastinum abscess

J85.3

Abscess of mediastinum

From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Abscess (connective tissue) (embolic) (fistulous) (infective) (metastatic) (multiple) (pernicious) (pyogenic) (septic) › mediastinum”. Page updated September 29, 2026.

About coding mediastinum abscess

The ICD-10-CM code for mediastinum abscess is J85.3 (Abscess of mediastinum).

Within J85 (abscess of lung and mediastinum), J85.3 is specifically for abscess of mediastinum. Related codes cover gangrene and necrosis of lung (J85.0), abscess of lung with pneumonia (J85.1) and abscess of lung without pneumonia (J85.2).

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.

Common questions about mediastinum abscess ICD-10 codes

What is the ICD-10 code for mediastinum abscess?

J85.3 — Abscess of mediastinum.

Is J85.3 billable?

Yes. J85.3 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).

Can J85.3 be used as a principal diagnosis?

Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict J85.3 as a principal diagnosis.

Is J85.3 a CC or MCC?

J85.3 is an MCC (major complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.