Search all medical codes
Chronic tonsillitis and adenoiditis
ICD10CM code
#### Name of the Condition
- **Chronic Tonsillitis and Adenoiditis** (ICD-10 Code: J35.03)
#### Summary
- Chronic tonsillitis and adenoiditis is a persistent inflammation of the tonsils and adenoids, often resulting in recurring infections and discomfort. These are lymphoid tissues located in the throat that play a role in the immune response but can become chronically inflamed due to recurrent infections or inadequate resolution of acute inflammation.
#### Causes
- Repeated bacterial (most commonly, Streptococcus pyogenes) or viral infections can lead to chronic inflammation. Poor hygiene and exposure to infections can also be contributory. In some cases, an underlying defect in the immune response may predispose individuals to this condition.
#### Risk Factors
- Factors include frequent upper respiratory infections, a history of tonsillitis or adenoiditis, being a child (as these tissues are larger in children), and exposure to cigarette smoke or other pollutants.
#### Symptoms
- Persistent sore throat, bad breath (halitosis), enlarged tonsils or adenoids, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, nasal congestion, sleep disturbances, and frequent colds.
#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis involves a clinical examination, including checking for throat redness and swelling. Throat cultures or blood tests may be performed to identify infectious agents. In some cases, imaging studies like X-rays or an MRI might be suggested to assess the size of the adenoids or look for blockage.
#### Treatment Options
- Treatment may involve antibiotics for bacterial infections, though surgical removal of the tonsils (tonsillectomy) and/or adenoids (adenoidectomy) may be recommended in chronic cases where infections are frequent and impact quality of life. Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications are also commonly used to manage symptoms.
#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- The prognosis is generally good following appropriate treatment. Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy in chronic cases usually result in significant improvement of symptoms. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are essential to monitor recovery and prevent complications.
#### Complications
- If untreated, chronic tonsillitis and adenoiditis can result in complications such as sleep apnea, difficulty breathing, or the spread of infection to surrounding tissues leading to peritonsillar abscess.
#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals, can help prevent infections. Avoiding environmental pollutants and maintaining a healthy diet to support immune function may also be beneficial.
#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms like persistent throat pain, difficulty swallowing or breathing, frequent infections, or sleep disturbances, as these could warrant further investigation or intervention.
#### Additional Resources
- **American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery**: [https://www.entnet.org/]
- **National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)**: [https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/]
#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the condition's chronicity is specified in clinical documentation to code accurately as J35.03.
- Verify any associated procedures, like tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy, are correctly coded and linked to the condition.
- Be mindful of distinguishing between acute and chronic presentations to prevent errors in coding.