ICD-10 Code J35.1 – Hypertrophy of tonsils (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J35.1 – Hypertrophy of tonsils
What it is
J35.1 identifies enlargement of the tonsils. Use it when the record documents tonsillar hypertrophy, whether incidental or associated with airway or swallowing complaints.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include enlarged tonsils on examination, sometimes with narrowed or crowded oropharyngeal space. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use J35.1 when the provider specifically documents hypertrophy of the tonsils as the diagnosis. It may appear in evaluations for snoring, obstructive symptoms, dysphagia, or recurrent throat complaints, but the code should match the documented condition.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute tonsillitis, peritonsillar abscess, or other infectious throat conditions unless hypertrophy is separately documented. Check documentation if the enlarged tonsils are mentioned only as a symptom.
Coding tip
Assign J35.1 only when tonsillar enlargement is clearly stated as a diagnosis, not merely implied by an exam note.