ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for external ear erysipelas
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Erysipelas (gangrenous) (infantile) (newborn) (phlegmonous) (suppurative) › external ear”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding external ear erysipelas
The ICD-10-CM code for external ear erysipelas is A46 (Erysipelas).
Don't report A46 together with the conditions in its Excludes1 note: postpartum or puerperal erysipelas (O86.89).
It is not a CC or MCC, so as a secondary diagnosis it doesn't change the MS-DRG severity level.
In MS-DRG v44.0, it is part of the grouping logic for DRG 602 (Cellulitis with MCC, relative weight 1.4273) and DRG 603 (Cellulitis without MCC, relative weight 0.8635), in MDC 09 (Diseases and Disorders of the Skin, Subcutaneous Tissue and Breast), as a principal or secondary diagnosis. The DRG a claim lands in depends on the principal diagnosis, procedures and any CC/MCC secondary diagnoses.
Don't confuse with (Excludes1 for A46)
- postpartum or puerperal erysipelas (O86.89)
Common questions about external ear erysipelas ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for external ear erysipelas?
- A46 — Erysipelas.
Is A46 billable?
- Yes. A46 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can A46 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict A46 as a principal diagnosis.
Is A46 a CC or MCC?
- No. A46 is neither a CC nor an MCC under MS-DRG v44.0.