A38Header code — not billable

Scarlet fever

Chapter
1. Certain infectious and parasitic diseases
Category
A38
Effective date
October 1, 2026

Related codes in category A38

A38.0Scarlet fever with otitis mediaYesA38.1Scarlet fever with myocarditisYesA38.8Scarlet fever with other complicationsYesA38.9Scarlet fever, uncomplicatedYes

Frequently asked questions

What is ICD-10 code A38?

A38 is an ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for Scarlet fever.

Is A38 a billable code?

No. A38 is a category/header code, not billable on its own — use one of its more specific child codes instead.

What ICD-10-CM chapter is A38 in?

A38 falls under Chapter 1: Certain infectious and parasitic diseases.

When did A38 become effective?

A38 has been effective since October 1, 2026, per the CMS/CDC ICD-10-CM annual release.

What other codes are related to A38?

A38 belongs to category A38, which includes 4 other codes — see the related codes list on this page.

ICD-10-CM data maintained by CDC/CMS (public domain). Always verify codes with authoritative sources before making coding or billing decisions.