ICD-10 Code J01.3 – Acute sphenoidal sinusitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J01.3 – Acute sphenoidal sinusitis
What it is
Acute sphenoidal sinusitis is a short-term infection or inflammation of the sphenoid sinus, one of the deep air spaces behind the nose. Use this code when documentation specifies the sphenoid sinus and the episode is acute.
Clinical signs
Common findings include headache, facial or deep retro-orbital pain, nasal congestion, and possible purulent drainage. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially when symptoms are nonspecific or the sphenoid sinus is identified on imaging.
When to use this code
Use J01.3 when the provider documents acute sphenoidal sinusitis, acute infection of the sphenoid sinus, or equivalent wording. This code fits outpatient, ED, or inpatient encounters when the diagnosis is confirmed or clearly assessed. If the note only says sinusitis without location, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for chronic sphenoidal sinusitis or unspecified sinusitis. It is also not appropriate when another sinus is named instead of the sphenoid sinus.
Coding tip
Always verify the sinus site and acuity in the provider note before assigning J01.3.