ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for sore throat ulcer
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Ulcer, ulcerated, ulcerating, ulceration, ulcerative › sore throat”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding sore throat ulcer
The ICD-10-CM code for sore throat ulcer is J02.9 (Acute pharyngitis, unspecified). The official index lists 1 more specific code, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on J02.9.
Within J02, choose J02.9 (unspecified) only when documentation doesn't support a more specific option: streptococcal pharyngitis (J02.0) and due to other specified organisms (J02.8).
Don't report J02.9 together with the conditions in its Excludes1 note: influenza virus with other respiratory manifestations (J09.X2, J10.1, J11.1).
It is not a CC or MCC, so as a secondary diagnosis it doesn't change the MS-DRG severity level.
More specific sore throat ulcer codes (official index)
- streptococcal J02.0 — Streptococcal pharyngitis
Don't confuse with (Excludes1 for J02.9)
Common questions about sore throat ulcer ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for sore throat ulcer?
- J02.9 — Acute pharyngitis, unspecified. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: J02.0.
What is the ICD-10 code for streptococcal sore throat ulcer?
- J02.0 — Streptococcal pharyngitis.
Is J02.9 billable?
- Yes. J02.9 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can J02.9 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict J02.9 as a principal diagnosis.
Is J02.9 a CC or MCC?
- No. J02.9 is neither a CC nor an MCC under MS-DRG v44.0.