Acute laryngopharyngitis

This code describes an acute inflammatory condition affecting both the larynx (voice box) and the pharynx (throat). It presents with symptoms such as sore throat, hoarseness, cough, and difficulty swallowing, typically of sudden onset and short duration. The inflammation is often viral in origin but can also be bacterial.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates an acute inflammatory process involving both the larynx and the pharynx. This diagnosis is supported by physician notes detailing acute onset of symptoms like dysphonia, pharyngitis, and laryngitis. It is appropriate for cases where the inflammation has not progressed to a chronic state.

• Differentiate from acute pharyngitis (462) or acute laryngitis (464.00) when only one anatomical site is affected.
• Do not use for chronic conditions; consider codes from the 478 series for chronic laryngitis or pharyngitis.
• If a specific causative organism is identified (e.g., streptococcal), code the infection first, then this code as a manifestation.