Streptococcal pharyngitis

This code identifies an acute inflammation of the pharynx (sore throat) caused by Streptococcus bacteria. It specifically refers to a bacterial infection of the throat, often presenting with symptoms like fever, tonsillar exudates, and swollen lymph nodes.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of streptococcal pharyngitis, typically confirmed by a rapid strep test or throat culture. It is appropriate for acute presentations of this bacterial infection.

• Do not use this code for scarlet fever; refer to the Excludes2 note for appropriate coding.
• Ensure documentation specifies "streptococcal" to differentiate from other forms of pharyngitis.
• Consider co-morbidities or complications that may require additional codes.