2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A38Scarlet fever
A38 is a non-billable ICD-10-CM category code for scarlet fever, so it cannot be submitted on claims. Use a more specific code from this category instead, such as A38.0, A38.1, A38.8, and A38.9.
Code Identity
Code Classification
Specific Coding for Scarlet feverOverview
Tabular List NotesGuidance
Coding notes and annotation back-references applicable to this code.
Includes
- scarlatina
Type 2 Excludes
- streptococcal sore throat J02.0
This note appears immediately under a three character code title to further define, or give examples of, the content of the category.
A type 2 excludes note represents "Not included here". An excludes2 note indicates that the condition excluded is not part of the condition represented by the code, but a patient may have both conditions at the same time. When an Excludes2 note appears under a code, it is acceptable to use both the code and the excluded code together, when appropriate.
Clinical InformationClinical
Scarlet Fever
infection with group a streptococci that is characterized by tonsillitis and pharyngitis. an erythematous rash is commonly present.Scarlet Fever
a streptococcal infection, mainly occurring among children, that is characterized by a red skin rash, sore throat, and fever.
Patient EducationClinical
Streptococcal Infections
Strep is short for Streptococcus, a type of bacteria. There are several types. Two of them cause most of the strep infections in people: group A and group B.
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