Enteroviral vesicular pharyngitis

This code identifies a viral infection characterized by small, fluid-filled blisters (vesicles) and ulcers in the posterior pharynx and soft palate, caused by an enterovirus. It is commonly known as herpangina, presenting with acute onset of fever, sore throat, and dysphagia.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of enteroviral vesicular pharyngitis or herpangina. This diagnosis is typically made based on clinical presentation, including the characteristic vesicular lesions in the throat, often in pediatric patients during summer or fall months.

• Ensure documentation specifies "vesicular" pharyngitis and an enteroviral etiology, or the common term "herpangina."
• Do not confuse with other forms of pharyngitis (e.g., streptococcal, viral non-specific) which have different ICD-10-CM codes.
• If a specific enterovirus is identified, consider an additional code for the viral agent, if applicable and supported by documentation.