ICD-10 Code A18.2 – Tuberculous peripheral lymphadenopathy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A18.2 – Tuberculous peripheral lymphadenopathy
What it is
A18.2 identifies tuberculosis infection of peripheral lymph nodes outside the chest, such as cervical, axillary, or inguinal nodes. Use it when documentation states tuberculous lymphadenitis or peripheral lymphadenopathy due to TB.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include enlarged, often painless peripheral lymph nodes, sometimes with tenderness, drainage, or sinus formation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for confirmed tuberculosis involvement.
When to use this code
Use A18.2 when the provider documents tuberculous infection of peripheral lymph nodes as the diagnosis. It fits confirmed extrapulmonary TB limited to peripheral nodes, or a stated TB lymphadenitis affecting these sites. If the record only says lymphadenopathy without TB, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific lymph node enlargement, reactive adenopathy, or suspected TB without confirmation. Do not use it for intrathoracic or generalized tuberculosis unless the record specifically documents peripheral node involvement.
Coding tip
Code the documented site and TB status exactly as written, and verify whether the provider names peripheral lymphadenopathy rather than a broader tuberculosis diagnosis.