ICD-10 Code J03.01 – Acute recurrent streptococcal tonsillitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J03.01 – Acute recurrent streptococcal tonsillitis
What it is
Use this code for repeated episodes of acute tonsillitis caused by streptococcal infection. It indicates a current acute infection pattern that has happened more than once, not simple sore throat.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sore throat, enlarged or inflamed tonsils, fever, and painful swallowing. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially if the record confirms streptococcal involvement or recurrent episodes.
When to use this code
Assign J03.01 when the provider documents acute recurrent streptococcal tonsillitis, recurrent strep tonsillitis, or equivalent wording. Use it for an active episode in a patient with a history of repeated similar infections. Check documentation if the note only says pharyngitis or tonsillitis without recurrence or streptococcal cause.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for chronic tonsillitis, nonspecific sore throat, or tonsillitis without documented streptococcal infection. Check documentation if the record does not clearly support both recurrence and acute streptococcal etiology.
Coding tip
Code J03.01 only when the provider clearly links the current episode to recurrent streptococcal tonsillitis.