Chronic tonsillitis and adenoiditis
ICD-10 J35.03 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic tonsillitis and adenoiditis.
Chronic tonsillitis and adenoiditis (J35.03) is characterized by persistent inflammation of the tonsils and adenoids, often resulting from recurrent infections. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as sore throat, difficulty swallowing, snoring, and obstructive sleep apnea due to enlarged tonsils and adenoids. The tonsils and adenoids are lymphoid tissues located in the oropharynx and nasopharynx, respectively, playing a crucial role in the immune response during childhood. Over time, chronic inflammation can lead to complications such as recurrent otitis media, sinusitis, and impaired quality of life. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, patient history, and may include imaging studies or endoscopy to assess the extent of hypertrophy and inflammation. Treatment often involves conservative management with antibiotics for acute exacerbations, but surgical intervention, such as tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy, may be indicated for refractory cases or significant airway obstruction.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
J35.03 covers chronic tonsillitis and adenoiditis, which may present with symptoms such as recurrent sore throat, difficulty breathing during sleep, and frequent ear infections. It is essential to differentiate it from acute tonsillitis and adenoiditis, which are coded differently.
J35.03 should be used when there is a documented history of chronic inflammation of both the tonsils and adenoids, particularly when symptoms persist despite treatment. If only one structure is involved, the appropriate specific code should be selected.
Documentation should include a detailed clinical history of recurrent symptoms, physical examination findings, and any imaging studies that support the diagnosis of chronic tonsillitis and adenoiditis. Treatment history and response to previous interventions are also critical.
