ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for cutaneous diphtheria
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Diphtheria, diphtheritic (gangrenous) (hemorrhagic) › cutaneous”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding cutaneous diphtheria
The ICD-10-CM code for cutaneous diphtheria is A36.3 (Cutaneous diphtheria).
Within A36 (diphtheria), A36.3 is specifically for cutaneous diphtheria. Related codes cover pharyngeal diphtheria (A36.0), nasopharyngeal diphtheria (A36.1), laryngeal diphtheria (A36.2), other diphtheria (A36.8) and unspecified (A36.9).
The conditions in its Excludes2 note aren't part of A36.3, but may be coded alongside it if the patient has both: erythrasma (L08.1).
As a secondary diagnosis it is a CC (complication or comorbidity), which can move an inpatient stay into the "with CC" MS-DRG of its family, unless the principal diagnosis excludes it.
Common questions about cutaneous diphtheria ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for cutaneous diphtheria?
- A36.3 — Cutaneous diphtheria.
Is A36.3 billable?
- Yes. A36.3 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can A36.3 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict A36.3 as a principal diagnosis.
Is A36.3 a CC or MCC?
- A36.3 is a CC (complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.