ICD-10 Code J36 – Peritonsillar abscess (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J36 – Peritonsillar abscess
What it is
J36 identifies a peritonsillar abscess, a localized collection of pus beside the tonsil. Use it when documentation states a tonsillar or peritonsillar abscess, often as a complication of tonsillitis.
Clinical signs
Common findings include severe sore throat, painful swallowing, muffled “hot potato” voice, and swelling near one tonsil. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use J36 when the provider documents peritonsillar abscess, quinsy, or abscess adjacent to the tonsil. It may appear with unilateral throat pain, trismus, or uvular deviation, but the diagnosis should be documented clearly. Code the abscess, not just tonsillitis, when both are mentioned.
Do not use for
Do not use J36 for simple tonsillitis, pharyngitis, or a tonsillar cyst without abscess. If the note only says “throat infection” or another neck abscess, check documentation.
Coding tip
Look for explicit wording such as “peritonsillar abscess” or “quinsy” in the assessment before assigning J36.