ICD-10 Code J37.1 – Chronic laryngotracheitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J37.1 – Chronic laryngotracheitis
What it is
J37.1 identifies chronic inflammation of the larynx and trachea. Use it when documentation states a persistent laryngotracheal inflammatory condition rather than an acute infection.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly reported findings may include chronic hoarseness, cough, throat irritation, or airway inflammation affecting both the larynx and trachea.
When to use this code
Use J37.1 when the provider documents chronic laryngotracheitis, chronic laryngotracheal inflammation, or a similar lasting condition. It fits outpatient or inpatient records when the diagnosis is established and not described as acute.
If the note describes a more specific disorder, code that condition instead. Check documentation when the record only mentions laryngitis, tracheitis, or upper respiratory infection without chronic laryngotracheal involvement.
Do not use for
Do not use J37.1 for acute laryngitis, acute tracheitis, or nonspecific sore throat complaints. Do not assign it when chronicity or combined larynx-and-trachea involvement is not documented.
Coding tip
Confirm that the provider documents both chronicity and laryngotracheal involvement before assigning J37.1.