Acute pharyngitis
ICD-10 J02 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of acute pharyngitis.
Acute pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharynx, commonly presenting with sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and sometimes fever. The condition is often viral in origin, with common pathogens including rhinovirus, adenovirus, and influenza virus, but can also be caused by bacterial infections, notably Group A Streptococcus. The pharynx, located behind the nasal cavity and mouth, plays a crucial role in the respiratory system as it serves as a passageway for air and food. Disease progression typically involves the onset of symptoms within a few days of exposure to the pathogen, with acute pharyngitis generally resolving within a week. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough history and physical examination, throat culture, or rapid antigen detection tests to differentiate between viral and bacterial causes. Accurate diagnosis is essential to avoid unnecessary antibiotic use and to manage symptoms effectively.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
J02 covers acute pharyngitis, which may be viral or bacterial in origin. It includes conditions such as pharyngitis due to streptococcal infection, viral pharyngitis, and other specified acute pharyngeal infections.
J02 should be used when the primary diagnosis is acute pharyngitis without complications. If the condition is specifically due to tonsillitis or other related conditions, then codes like J03 or J04 may be more appropriate.
Documentation should include patient history, physical examination findings, results of any throat cultures or rapid tests, and treatment plans. Clear notes on symptom duration and severity are also critical.
