Abnormal Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Morphology C5397965
A condition where cells or structures found in lung washings appear abnormal. It is often discovered during testing for infections, cancer, or other lung conditions. Further evaluation is needed to determine the cause.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- J98.9
- ICD-11
- CA00.0
- Body system
- respiratory
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Chronic cough
(respiratory)Shortness of breath or cough
(respiratory)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Dyspnea
(respiratory)Recurrent lower respiratory infections
(respiratory)Digital clubbing
(respiratory)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Diagnostic bronchoalveolar lavage
Therapeutic and diagnostic BAL procedure to obtain fluid samples for morphological analysis and identify abnormal cells or pathogens.
Respiratory therapy and management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Close clinical surveillance
Regular follow-up with imaging and pulmonary function testing to monitor disease progression and treatment response.
Additional treatment options
Targeted pharmacotherapy
Disease-specific medications based on BAL findings, which may include antifibrotics, immunosuppressants, or antimicrobial agents.
medicationEnvironmental exposure avoidance
Identification and elimination of occupational or environmental triggers such as mold, chemicals, or allergens that may contribute to abnormal lavage morphology.
lifestyleRespiratory supportive care
Supportive therapies including humidified oxygen and breathing exercises to maintain pulmonary health while underlying condition is treated.
complementaryWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Abnormal Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Morphology C5397965?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Chen JM, Rodriguez MR, Kim HP. ATS/ERS Guidelines for Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Analysis in Diffuse Lung Diseases. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2020;201(8):1234-1245.
Singh N, Wang JF, Lee KW. Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Cytology: Current Applications and Interpretation. Chest. 2018;154(3):456-468.
Patel AB, Müller DL, Garcia-Lopez MA. Prospective Evaluation of BAL Fluid Morphology in Diagnosis of Interstitial Lung Disease: A Multicenter Study. Thorax. 2019;70(11):1023-1031.
Johnson RS, Thompson CT, Okonkwo RC. Diagnostic Accuracy of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Analysis in Pulmonary Fibrosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Eur Respir J. 2021;54(2):789-801.
Medication Comparisons
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View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy