ICD-10 Code J35.9 – Chronic disease of tonsils and adenoids, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J35.9 – Chronic disease of tonsils and adenoids, unspecified
What it is
J35.9 identifies a chronic, ongoing disorder of the tonsils and adenoids when the record does not specify the exact type. Use it when documentation confirms persistent disease but gives no further detail.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly recorded findings may include enlarged tonsils or adenoids, recurrent throat symptoms, or chronic upper airway obstruction.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents chronic tonsillar or adenoidal disease without naming a more specific condition. It is appropriate for unspecified chronic inflammation or enlargement when the note lacks detail needed for a more exact code.
Choose it only when the record supports a chronic disorder of the tonsils and adenoids, not an acute infection. If the documentation identifies a specific chronic diagnosis, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use J35.9 for acute tonsillitis, acute adenoiditis, or conditions with a more specific chronic code. Check documentation if the note describes another throat disorder or a post-procedural state.
Coding tip
Query for specificity when the chart mentions chronic tonsil or adenoid disease but does not clearly state the exact diagnosis.