ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for ulcer aphthae
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Aphthae, aphthous › ulcer (oral) (recurrent)”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding ulcer aphthae
The ICD-10-CM code for ulcer aphthae is K12.0 (Recurrent oral aphthae). The official index lists 3 more specific codes, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on K12.0.
Within K12 (stomatitis and related lesions), K12.0 is specifically for recurrent oral aphthae. Related codes cover other forms of stomatitis (K12.1), cellulitis and abscess of mouth (K12.2) and oral mucositis (ulcerative) (K12.3).
Use an additional code to identify: alcohol abuse and dependence (F10.-), exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (Z77.22), exposure to tobacco smoke in the perinatal period (P96.81), history of tobacco dependence (Z87.891), occupational exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (Z57.31) and 2 more.
It is not a CC or MCC, so as a secondary diagnosis it doesn't change the MS-DRG severity level.
More specific ulcer aphthae codes (official index)
Common questions about ulcer aphthae ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for ulcer aphthae?
- K12.0 — Recurrent oral aphthae. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: N76.6, N50.89, J38.7.
What is the ICD-10 code for larynx ulcer aphthae?
- J38.7 — Other diseases of larynx.
Is K12.0 billable?
- Yes. K12.0 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can K12.0 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict K12.0 as a principal diagnosis.
Is K12.0 a CC or MCC?
- No. K12.0 is neither a CC nor an MCC under MS-DRG v44.0.