Diseases of vocal cords and larynx, not elsewhere classified (J38) ICD-10-CM
The J38 code range covers diseases of vocal cords and larynx, not elsewhere classified with 12 ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes. 10 of them are billable and valid for claim submission in fiscal year 2027, and the category headers group them but cannot themselves be billed.
Type 1 Excludes
A type 1 excludes note is a pure excludes note. It means "NOT CODED HERE!" An Excludes1 note indicates that the code excluded should never be used at the same time as the code above the Excludes1 note. An Excludes1 is used when two conditions cannot occur together, such as a congenital form versus an acquired form of the same condition.
Codes in the J38 Range 12 codes · 10 billable
- J38 Diseases of vocal cords and larynx, not elsewhere classifiedNon-billable
- J38.0 Paralysis of vocal cords and larynxNon-billable
- J38.00 Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, unspecified
- J38.01 Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, unilateral
- J38.02 Paralysis of vocal cords and larynx, bilateral
- J38.1 Polyp of vocal cord and larynx
- J38.2 Nodules of vocal cords
- J38.3 Other diseases of vocal cords
- J38.4 Edema of larynx
- J38.5 Laryngeal spasm
- J38.6 Stenosis of larynx
- J38.7 Other diseases of larynx
Clinical Terms in This Code Range
Definitions from the National Library of Medicine for conditions coded in the J38 range.
Laryngismus
A disorder in which the adductor muscles of the VOCAL CORDS exhibit increased activity leading to laryngeal spasm. Laryngismus causes closure of the VOCAL FOLDS and airflow obstruction during inspiration.
Laryngostenosis
Developmental or acquired stricture or narrowing of the LARYNX. Symptoms of respiratory difficulty depend on the degree of laryngeal narrowing.
About the J38 Code Range
These conditions affect the vocal cords or the larynx, also called the voice box.
J38.0 groups paralysis, or loss of movement. Its subdivisions distinguish unspecified paralysis from paralysis on one side or both sides. Other codes distinguish polyps and nodules, which are growths; swelling, spasms and narrowing; and other diseases of the vocal cords or larynx.
Questions About This Page
How many billable codes are in the J38 range?
Of the 12 codes in this range, 10 are billable and valid for claim submission from October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027. Category header codes group them but cannot be reported on claims.
What does the J38 range classify?
The range classifies diseases of vocal cords and larynx, not elsewhere classified. Each code links to its own reference page with billing status, MS-DRG grouping, coding notes, and clinical information.
Related References
Source: CMS FY 2027 ICD-10-CM Tabular List and order file, effective October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027.
