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ICD Hub / Diseases of the respiratory system (J00–J99) / CA03.Y - Other specified acute tonsillitis
ICD-11

ICD-11 Codes
for CA03.Y - Other specified acute tonsillitis
Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970
Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski
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Synonyms and Alternative Terms for Acute Tonsillitis

Other specified acute tonsillitis (ICD-11 code CA03.Y) is also referred to by various clinical terms. These may include: Acute tonsillitis due to other specified organisms, Acute follicular tonsillitis, Acute gangrenous tonsillitis, Acute infective tonsillitis, infection of tonsil, Acute septic tonsillitis, Acute ulcerative tonsillitis, Parenchymatous tonsillitis, and Suppurative tonsillitis. Patient-friendly terms often include sore throat or inflamed tonsils.

Understanding Other Specified Acute Tonsillitis (ICD-11 Code CA03.Y)

The ICD-11 code CA03.Y designates "Other specified acute tonsillitis." This classification is used for acute inflammation of the tonsils when the specific causative agent has been identified but does not fall under more common or specific ICD-11 categories. It signifies an acute infection of the tonsils with a known, specified cause, distinct from unspecified or broadly defined acute tonsillitis.

Identifying the Triggers for Specified Acute Tonsillitis

The designation "specified" in CA03.Y indicates that the underlying cause of the acute tonsillitis has been identified. While many acute tonsillitis cases are viral, this code is applied when a particular bacterial or other pathogen is confirmed. The ICD-11 framework allows for post-coordination with a broad range of identified infectious agents, reflecting the specific pathogen responsible for the condition.

Recognising the Signs of Acute Tonsillitis

Common symptoms associated with acute tonsillitis include a sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing. Physical examination may reveal inflamed and enlarged tonsils, potentially with exudates. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck can also be a symptom. The specific presentation can vary depending on the identified infectious agent.

Documentation and Coding for CA03.Y

The ICD-11 code CA03.Y is the official designation for "Other specified acute tonsillitis." This code is reportable and billable when supported by appropriate clinical documentation. Accurate medical records should clearly state the diagnosis and, crucially, the identified causative agent to justify the use of this specific code. Billing and documentation phrases might include "Acute tonsillitis, specified organism" or "Diagnosis: CA03.Y".

Managing Other Specified Acute Tonsillitis

Treatment for other specified acute tonsillitis is guided by the identified cause. If a bacterial infection is confirmed, antibiotic therapy is often prescribed. Symptomatic management, including relief for fever and throat pain, is also a standard part of care. Healthcare providers will determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on the specific pathogen identified and the patient's overall clinical condition.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ICD-11 classification meaning of 'Other specified acute tonsillitis' (CA03.Y)?
CA03.Y is used for acute tonsillitis that is specified but does not fit into more precise categories within the CA03 classification. It indicates that sufficient detail is available to classify the condition beyond 'unspecified', but it is not covered by a more specific code.
How does ICD-11 facilitate detailed coding for CA03.Y?
ICD-11 allows for postcoordination with CA03.Y. This means that additional codes, such as those specifying the infectious agent, can be combined with the stem code to provide a more detailed description of the condition.
When is CA03.Y the appropriate code for acute tonsillitis?
CA03.Y is appropriate when the documentation specifies details about the acute tonsillitis that do not align with other specific codes within the CA03 category, such as CA03.0 for streptococcal tonsillitis. It is used when the condition is specified but not otherwise classified.
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