ICD-10 Code K11.21 – Acute sialoadenitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K11.21 – Acute sialoadenitis
What it is
Acute sialoadenitis is sudden inflammation of a salivary gland, most often the parotid or submandibular gland. It usually causes localized swelling and pain and may be related to infection or duct obstruction.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a tender, enlarged salivary gland, pain with chewing or eating, and sometimes redness or purulent drainage from the duct. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use K11.21 when the provider documents acute inflammation of a salivary gland, including acute suppurative sialadenitis. Apply it when the record clearly identifies the condition as acute rather than chronic or recurrent. If the note only says salivary gland swelling without a diagnosis, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for chronic sialadenitis, salivary gland stones without inflammation, or nonspecific oral swelling. If the documentation points to another salivary gland disorder, code that condition instead.
Coding tip
Confirm the provider’s exact wording and whether the affected gland is specified before assigning K11.21.