ICD-10-CM
ICD-10 code for Sore throat: J02.9
The CDC title for "Sore throat" is J02 (Acute pharyngitis), a header that is not billable. When nothing more specific is documented, the billable code is J02.9, Acute pharyngitis, unspecified.
Source: CDC ICD-10-CM FY2027 order file dated June 16, 2026. Publisher page
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Codes under J02, then other CDC titles that name acute pharyngitis
A header groups codes and is not billed. A billable code is one you can report.
Excludes1
Excludes1 means these codes are not reported together.
From J02. A note on a category applies to every code under it.
Excludes2
Excludes2 means the other condition can be reported with this one when both are documented.
From J02. A note on a category applies to every code under it.
Related conditions
Related pages
- J02.9 code detailsNotes, nearby codes, CMS-HCC group
- Category J02Every code under it
- Chapter 10Diseases of the respiratory system
- ICD-10 codes by conditionA to Z
- Check a list of ICD-10 codes
- Denial code CO-11Diagnosis does not support the procedure
- Denial code CO-146Diagnosis invalid for the date of service
- HCPCS Level II code lookup
Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for Sore throat?
The CDC title for "Sore throat" is J02 (Acute pharyngitis), a header that is not billable. When nothing more specific is documented, the billable code is J02.9, Acute pharyngitis, unspecified.
Is J02.9 billable?
Yes. J02.9 is a billable code in the FY2027 ICD-10-CM file. Use a more specific code when the record documents one.
What documentation notes apply to J02.9?
The CDC tabular list gives 5 Excludes1 notes (not coded together), 1 Excludes2 note (may be coded together when both are documented) for J02.9 and the categories above it. They are listed on this page.
What chapter is J02.9 in?
Chapter 10. Diseases of the respiratory system.
When do ICD-10-CM codes change?
Every October 1, with the new fiscal year file. Some years add April 1 updates. This page uses the FY2027 file, effective October 1, 2026.