Odynophagia ICD-10 Code: R13.10
Last updated: January 31, 2025
The ICD-10 code for odynophagia (painful swallowing) is R13.10 (Dysphagia, unspecified). If a specific cause is identified (esophagitis, thrush, etc.), code the underlying condition. Use R13.10 when odynophagia is the presenting symptom being evaluated.
Primary Code Details
| Code | Description | Billable |
|---|---|---|
| R13.10 | Dysphagia, unspecified | Yes |
Related Codes
Documentation Requirements
- Distinguish odynophagia (painful swallowing) from dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- Document location of pain (oropharyngeal, esophageal)
- Note associated symptoms (heartburn, regurgitation, weight loss)
- Document underlying cause if identified
Common Coding Scenarios
Documentation:
"Patient presents with painful swallowing for 1 week. No fever, no rash. EGD scheduled."
Code:
R13.10 - Dysphagia, unspecified
Rationale:
Use R13.10 for odynophagia when the cause is not yet determined and the symptom is the reason for the encounter.
Documentation:
"Painful swallowing secondary to erosive esophagitis seen on EGD."
Code:
K20.9 - Esophagitis, unspecified
Rationale:
When the underlying cause is identified, code the condition causing the symptom rather than the symptom itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
R13.10 (Dysphagia, unspecified) is used for odynophagia when it's the presenting symptom. If an underlying cause is identified (esophagitis, infection), code the underlying condition instead.
ICD-10-CM does not have a specific code that distinguishes odynophagia (painful swallowing) from dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). R13.10 is used for both presentations.
Code R13.10 when odynophagia is being evaluated and no cause has been determined. Once a cause is identified (esophagitis, infection, cancer), code the underlying condition.
Related Resources
Last updated: January 2025. Code data reflects ICD-10-CM 2026 version. This guide is for educational purposes only. Always verify codes against current official guidelines.