Scarlet fever (A38) ICD-10-CM
The A38 code range covers scarlet fever with 5 ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes. 4 of them are billable and valid for claim submission in fiscal year 2027, and the category headers group them but cannot themselves be billed.
Includes
This note appears immediately under a three character code title to further define, or give examples of, the content of the category.
- scarlatina
Type 2 Excludes
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.
- streptococcal sore throat J02.0
Codes in the A38 Range 5 codes · 4 billable
Clinical Terms in This Code Range
Definitions from the National Library of Medicine for conditions coded in the A38 range.
Scarlet Fever
Infection with group A streptococci that is characterized by tonsillitis and pharyngitis. An erythematous rash is commonly present.
About the A38 Code Range
Scarlet fever is a group A streptococcal infection involving the tonsils and throat, often with a red rash.
Within other bacterial diseases, its subdivisions distinguish complications. A38.0 identifies middle ear infection, and A38.1 identifies heart muscle inflammation. A38.8 covers other complications, while A38.9 is uncomplicated scarlet fever.
Questions About This Page
How many billable codes are in the A38 range?
Of the 5 codes in this range, 4 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 A38 range classify?
The range classifies scarlet fever. 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.
