ICD-10 Code J04.31 – Supraglottitis, unspecified, with obstruction (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J04.31 – Supraglottitis, unspecified, with obstruction
What it is
J04.31 identifies inflammation of the supraglottic structures with airway obstruction, when the site is not otherwise specified. Use it for a documented supraglottitis diagnosis that includes obstructive findings.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include sore throat, painful swallowing, muffled voice, drooling, stridor, or respiratory distress when the airway is narrowed.
When to use this code
Use J04.31 when the provider documents supraglottitis and clearly states obstruction, but does not specify a more exact anatomic site or cause. It also fits cases where airway compromise is part of the recorded diagnosis. Check documentation if the note only says epiglottitis, laryngitis, or throat swelling without supraglottic obstruction.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for supraglottitis without obstruction, or when the diagnosis is limited to another upper-airway condition. If the record is unclear, check documentation before assigning J04.31.
Coding tip
Confirm that both “supraglottitis” and “with obstruction” are documented; the obstruction component changes code selection.