ICD-10 Code J38.1 – Polyp of vocal cord and larynx (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J38.1 – Polyp of vocal cord and larynx
What it is
J38.1 identifies a benign polyp on the vocal cord or within the larynx. It is used when documentation names a vocal cord or laryngeal polyp without a more specific laryngeal lesion.
Clinical signs
Common findings include hoarseness, voice fatigue, and a breathy or rough voice. Diagnosis is usually based on laryngoscopic visualization; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use J38.1 when the provider documents a vocal cord polyp, laryngeal polyp, or a benign polypoid lesion of the vocal folds. Apply it for confirmed outpatient or inpatient diagnoses when the record supports the site and lesion type. If the note only says “laryngeal mass” or “vocal cord lesion,” check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for malignant laryngeal tumors, papillomas, nodules, or edema. If the documentation does not clearly identify a polyp, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify the exact anatomic site in the provider note, because vocal cord and laryngeal lesions are not always interchangeable.