ICD-10 Code B37.81 – Candidal esophagitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B37.81 – Candidal esophagitis
What it is
B37.81 identifies Candida infection of the esophagus. Use it when documentation states candidal esophagitis, esophageal thrush, or fungal infection of the esophagus.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include painful swallowing, difficulty swallowing, and evidence of Candida involvement in the esophagus. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use B37.81 when the provider documents candidal esophagitis as the diagnosis, especially after endoscopic or clinical confirmation. It may also apply when the note clearly links esophageal symptoms to Candida infection. If the record only mentions oral thrush without esophageal involvement, do not assume this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for oral candidiasis alone or for nonspecific esophagitis without Candida documented. Check documentation if the site of infection is unclear.
Coding tip
Confirm that the esophagus is named in the record; Candida at another site is coded separately.