ICD-10 Code J35 – Chronic diseases of tonsils and adenoids (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J35 – Chronic diseases of tonsils and adenoids
What it is
J35 identifies chronic, non-acute disorders of the tonsils and adenoids. Use it when the record documents persistent enlargement, inflammation, or recurrent disease affecting these lymphoid tissues.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include recurrent sore throat, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, snoring, mouth breathing, or repeated infections noted over time.
When to use this code
Use J35 when the provider documents a chronic tonsillar or adenoidal condition without a more specific subtype. It also fits chronic hypertrophy or chronic inflammation when the note does not point to an acute episode. If the chart names a specific chronic diagnosis, code that documented condition.
Do not use for
Do not use J35 for acute tonsillitis, acute pharyngitis, or peritonsillar abscess. Check documentation if the condition is clearly postoperative, neoplastic, or otherwise outside chronic tonsil or adenoid disease.
Coding tip
Look for the exact chronic diagnosis in the assessment; J35 is a category code, so a more specific J35.- code may be required.