ICD-10 Code J01.31 – Acute recurrent sphenoidal sinusitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J01.31 – Acute recurrent sphenoidal sinusitis
What it is
This code identifies a new acute episode of inflammation or infection in the sphenoid sinus that occurs again after prior similar episodes. It is used when the condition is specifically documented as recurrent and acute.
Clinical signs
Clinical features may include headache, nasal congestion, postnasal drainage, and facial or deep head pain. Because sphenoid sinus disease can be nonspecific, check documentation for the sinus involved and whether the episode is acute and recurrent.
When to use this code
Use J01.31 when the provider documents acute recurrent sphenoidal sinusitis, or clearly describes repeated acute sphenoid sinus infections. The record should support both the acute nature and the recurrent pattern. If the sinus site or recurrence is unclear, check documentation before assigning the code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for chronic sphenoidal sinusitis, a single acute episode without recurrence, or sinusitis involving a different sinus. If the documentation only says “sinusitis” without specifying the sphenoid sinus, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the exact sinus and episode type as documented; “recurrent” and “acute” both matter for correct code selection.