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 2026, 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.
Laryngomalacia
A congenital or acquired condition of underdeveloped or degeneration of CARTILAGE in the LARYNX. This results in a floppy laryngeal wall making patency difficult to maintain.
Vocal Cord Paralysis
Congenital or acquired paralysis of one or both VOCAL CORDS. This condition is caused by defects in the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM, the VAGUS NERVE and branches of LARYNGEAL NERVES. Common symptoms are VOICE DISORDERS including HOARSENESS or APHONIA.
About the J38 Code Range
The ICD-10 code section J38 covers diseases of the vocal cords and larynx that are not classified elsewhere. These codes categorize a range of specific voice and throat conditions affecting vocal cord function, structure, or the larynx itself.
This section includes codes for paralysis of vocal cords and larynx (J38.0 and its subcodes), which cover unilateral, bilateral, or unspecified vocal cord paralysis—terms also known as laryngeal paresis or vocal cord palsy. Conditions like polyps and nodules of vocal cords (J38.1 and J38.2) are common voice-related issues, sometimes called singers' nodes or vocal cord ulcers. The group also includes a variety of other vocal cord disorders such as cysts, granulomas, and spastic dysphonia (J38.3), as well as edema of the larynx (J38.4), known by terms like Reinke’s edema. Conditions causing laryngeal spasm (J38.5) and stenosis of the larynx (J38.6) are included, addressing airway complications. Lastly, J38.7 captures other less common laryngeal diseases such as laryngeal webs, cysts, and inflammatory or degenerative disorders. Understanding these codes helps accurately identify and document specific vocal cord and larynx disorders for diagnosis and treatment guidance.
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, 2025 through September 30, 2026. 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 2026 ICD-10-CM Tabular List and order file, effective October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026.
