ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for Postpharyngeal abscess
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Abscess (connective tissue) (embolic) (fistulous) (infective) (metastatic) (multiple) (pernicious) (pyogenic) (septic) › postpharyngeal”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding Postpharyngeal abscess
The ICD-10-CM code for Postpharyngeal abscess is J39.0 (Retropharyngeal and parapharyngeal abscess).
Within J39 (other diseases of upper respiratory tract), J39.0 is specifically for Retropharyngeal and parapharyngeal abscess. Related codes cover other abscess of pharynx (J39.1), other diseases of pharynx (J39.2), upper respiratory tract hypersensitivity reaction, site unspecified (J39.3), other specified diseases of upper respiratory tract (J39.8) and disease of upper respiratory tract, unspecified (J39.9).
Don't report J39.0 together with the conditions in its Excludes1 note: peritonsillar abscess (J36).
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.
Don't confuse with (Excludes1 for J39.0)
- peritonsillar abscess (J36)
Common questions about Postpharyngeal abscess ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for Postpharyngeal abscess?
- J39.0 — Retropharyngeal and parapharyngeal abscess.
Is J39.0 billable?
- Yes. J39.0 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can J39.0 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict J39.0 as a principal diagnosis.
Is J39.0 a CC or MCC?
- J39.0 is a CC (complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.