NPI Atlas

A38 – Scarlet fever

ICD-10-CM 2027 diagnosis code · Other bacterial diseases

Non-billable header

ICD-10-CM code A38

Code: A38 (claims format: A38)
Description: Scarlet fever
Billable: No – use a more specific code below
Valid for: Dates of service October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027 (FY2027)
Chapter: 1. Certain infectious and parasitic diseases (A00-B99)
Block: A30-A49 Other bacterial diseases

Billable codes under A38

A38 is a header code and cannot be used on claims. Choose the most specific code:

A38.0 – Scarlet fever with otitis mediaBillable
A38.1 – Scarlet fever with myocarditisBillable
A38.8 – Scarlet fever with other complicationsBillable
A38.9 – Scarlet fever, uncomplicatedBillable

Notes for A38

Includes:

scarlatina

Excludes2 (not included here):

streptococcal sore throat (J02.0)

Frequently asked questions

What is ICD-10 code A38?

A38 is the ICD-10-CM code for scarlet fever, in the block A30-A49 (Other bacterial diseases).

Is A38 a billable code?

No. A38 is a header code with more specific child codes; report one of the billable codes listed above.

Source: CDC/NCHS ICD-10-CM FY2027 code files, tabular list and index. Reference only – code assignment must follow the official ICD-10-CM guidelines and documentation in the medical record.