ICD-10 Code J32.1 – Chronic Frontal Sinusitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J32.1 – Chronic frontal sinusitis
What it is
J32.1 identifies long-lasting inflammation of the frontal sinus, the air-filled space in the forehead. Use it when the condition is documented as chronic and limited to the frontal sinus.
Clinical signs
Common findings include persistent frontal pressure or pain, nasal congestion, and drainage. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for chronic sinus inflammation involving the frontal sinus.
When to use this code
Use J32.1 when the provider documents chronic frontal sinusitis, including recurrent or persistent frontal sinus inflammation. Apply it when the record clearly identifies the frontal sinus rather than another sinus site. If the documentation is nonspecific, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute frontal sinusitis or sinusitis affecting other sinuses only. If the chart does not specify chronicity or sinus location, do not assume J32.1.
Coding tip
Verify both chronicity and frontal sinus involvement in the note before assigning J32.1.