ICD-10 Code A35 – Other tetanus (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A35 – Other tetanus
What it is
Use A35 for tetanus cases that do not fit a more specific tetanus category. It identifies a toxin-mediated infection caused by Clostridium tetani when documentation supports tetanus, but the type is not otherwise specified.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include muscle rigidity, painful spasms, and jaw stiffness, but you should code only when the record clearly supports tetanus.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents tetanus without a more specific subtype. It is appropriate for confirmed tetanus infections when the chart does not identify neonatal, obstetric, or another defined form. If the note is vague, check documentation before assigning A35.
Do not use for
Do not use A35 for neonatal or obstetric tetanus when those conditions are documented separately. Also avoid it when the record does not confirm tetanus or when another specific tetanus code is supported.
Coding tip
Assign A35 only after confirming tetanus in the documentation and ruling out a more specific tetanus category.