ICD-10 Code J03.0 – Streptococcal tonsillitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J03.0 – Streptococcal tonsillitis
What it is
J03.0 identifies acute tonsillitis caused by streptococcal infection. Use it when the record clearly documents streptococcal tonsillitis, usually involving inflamed tonsils with an infectious cause.
Clinical signs
Common findings include sore throat, enlarged or red tonsils, fever, and painful swallowing. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, and confirm streptococcal etiology when it is stated.
When to use this code
Use this code when the clinician documents streptococcal tonsillitis, streptococcal sore throat with tonsillar involvement, or a confirmed strep infection affecting the tonsils. If the note only says “tonsillitis” without an organism, check documentation before assigning J03.0.
Do not use for
Do not use J03.0 for viral tonsillitis, nonspecific acute tonsillitis, or pharyngitis without tonsillar involvement. If the organism is not documented, or another cause is stated, use the more accurate code.
Coding tip
Look for explicit provider documentation of streptococcal cause before coding J03.0.