ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for Phlegmonous angina
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Angina (attack) (cardiac) (chest) (heart) (pectoris) (syndrome) (vasomotor) › phlegmonous”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding Phlegmonous angina
The ICD-10-CM code for Phlegmonous angina is J36 (Peritonsillar abscess). The official index lists 1 more specific code, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on J36.
Don't report J36 together with the conditions in its Excludes1 note: acute tonsillitis (J03.-), chronic tonsillitis (J35.0), retropharyngeal abscess (J39.0) and tonsillitis NOS (J03.9-).
Use an additional code (B95-B97) to identify infectious agent.
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.
More specific Phlegmonous angina codes (official index)
- diphtheritic A36.0 — Pharyngeal diphtheria
Don't confuse with (Excludes1 for J36)
Common questions about Phlegmonous angina ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for Phlegmonous angina?
- J36 — Peritonsillar abscess. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: A36.0.
What is the ICD-10 code for diphtheritic phlegmonous angina?
- A36.0 — Pharyngeal diphtheria.
Is J36 billable?
- Yes. J36 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can J36 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict J36 as a principal diagnosis.
Is J36 a CC or MCC?
- J36 is a CC (complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.