ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for croup
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Croup, croupous (catarrhal) (infectious) (inflammatory) (nondiphtheritic)”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding croup
The ICD-10-CM code for croup is J05.0 (Acute obstructive laryngitis [croup]). The official index lists 7 more specific codes, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on J05.0.
Within J05 (acute obstructive laryngitis [croup] and epiglottitis), J05.0 is specifically for acute obstructive laryngitis [croup]. Related codes cover epiglottitis (J05.1).
Use an additional code (B95-B97) to identify infectious agent.
It is not a CC or MCC, so as a secondary diagnosis it doesn't change the MS-DRG severity level.
More specific croup codes (official index)
Common questions about croup ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for croup?
- J05.0 — Acute obstructive laryngitis [croup]. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: J20.9, A36.2, J38.5, J38.5 and others below.
What is the ICD-10 code for bronchial croup?
- J20.9 — Acute bronchitis, unspecified.
What is the ICD-10 code for diphtheritic croup?
- A36.2 — Laryngeal diphtheria.
What is the ICD-10 code for false croup?
- J38.5 — Laryngeal spasm.
What is the ICD-10 code for spasmodic croup?
- J38.5 — Laryngeal spasm.
What is the ICD-10 code for stridulous croup?
- J38.5 — Laryngeal spasm.
Is J05.0 billable?
- Yes. J05.0 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can J05.0 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict J05.0 as a principal diagnosis.
Is J05.0 a CC or MCC?
- No. J05.0 is neither a CC nor an MCC under MS-DRG v44.0.