ICD-10 Code I88.9 – Nonspecific lymphadenitis, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I88.9 – Nonspecific lymphadenitis, unspecified
What it is
I88.9 identifies inflammation of lymph nodes when the site or cause is not specified. Use it for documented lymphadenitis that is nonspecific and not further classified.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include enlarged, tender, or painful lymph nodes, sometimes with localized warmth or swelling. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use I88.9 when the provider documents lymphadenitis but does not name a specific organism, region, or underlying condition. It also fits cases where the record only states “nonspecific lymphadenitis” or “unspecified lymphadenitis.”
If the note identifies a more precise lymph node group, infectious cause, or related disorder, code that documented condition instead. Check documentation when the diagnosis is described broadly or appears secondary to another illness.
Do not use for
Do not assign this code for lymphadenopathy without inflammation, or for clearly specified infectious lymphadenitis. Do not use it when the chart supports a more exact lymph node or disease code.
Coding tip
Code I88.9 only when the record supports lymphadenitis and no further detail is available.