ICD-10 Code J35.8 – Other chronic diseases of tonsils and adenoids (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J35.8 – Other chronic diseases of tonsils and adenoids
What it is
J35.8 identifies chronic tonsil or adenoid disorders that do not fit a more specific diagnosis. Use it when the chart documents a persistent, nonacute condition involving these tissues.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, records describe ongoing tonsillar or adenoidal enlargement, chronic irritation, or recurrent local symptoms without an acute infection.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a chronic tonsil or adenoid condition and no more specific J35 code applies. It is appropriate for nonspecific chronic disease of these structures, including cases described as “other” chronic disorders. Check documentation if the note does not clearly distinguish tonsils from adenoids.
Do not use for
Do not use J35.8 for acute tonsillitis, peritonsillar abscess, or clearly specified chronic conditions with their own codes. If the record supports a different, more specific diagnosis, code that instead.
Coding tip
Look for the provider’s exact wording and code the documented chronic site and specificity, not the symptom alone.