Acute recurrent streptococcal tonsillitis

This diagnosis code signifies an active, acute inflammation of the tonsils caused by a streptococcal bacterial infection that has occurred multiple times. It indicates a current episode of strep tonsillitis in a patient with a history of recurrent infections.

Use this code when documentation clearly states an acute tonsillitis episode is due to streptococcal infection and the patient has a history of recurrent strep tonsillitis. Supporting documentation includes positive strep tests (rapid or culture), physician notes detailing acute symptoms (e.g., sore throat, fever, exudates), and a history of previous strep tonsillitis episodes.

• Do not use this code for chronic tonsillitis or a single episode of acute strep tonsillitis.
• Ensure documentation specifies "recurrent" in addition to "acute" and "streptococcal."
• Consider sequencing with codes for any associated complications or systemic manifestations if present.