ICD-10 Code A20.0 – Bubonic plague (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A20.0 – Bubonic plague
What it is
A20.0 identifies bubonic plague, a bacterial infection caused by Yersinia pestis. It primarily affects lymph nodes and is the classic glandular form of plague.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden fever, chills, headache, and painful swollen lymph nodes called buboes. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents bubonic plague or confirms plague with prominent lymph node involvement. It is appropriate for cases described as glandular plague or plague with buboes. If the record only says “plague” without type, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pneumonic plague, septicemic plague, or unspecified plague. If the documentation does not identify bubonic involvement, choose the more accurate code or check documentation.
Coding tip
Code from the provider’s documented plague type, and verify whether the record specifies bubonic disease rather than another form.