Peritonsillar abscess (J36)
The ICD-10 code J36 is specifically used to identify a diagnosis of peritonsillar abscess, a localized collection of pus near the tonsils. This condition often arises as a complication related to infections of the throat and tonsils.
Medical coders and healthcare providers use J36 to document cases involving peritonsillar abscesses, which may also be referred to by synonyms such as recurrent peritonsillar abscess, peritonsillar cellulitis, abscess of the tonsil, or cellulitis of the pharynx. Recognizing these alternative terms is important when selecting the correct ICD-10 code for accurate clinical records. This code applies when patients present with symptoms related to abscess formation around the tonsils, which requires targeted treatment distinct from general tonsillitis. The use of ICD-10 code J36 helps ensure precise coding for acute infections specifically involving peritonsillar tissues, facilitating proper documentation and healthcare management.
Instructional Notations
Includes
This note appears immediately under a three character code title to further define, or give examples of, the content of the category.
- abscess of tonsil
- peritonsillar cellulitis
- quinsy
Use Additional Code
The “use additional code” indicates that a secondary code could be used to further specify the patient’s condition. This note is not mandatory and is only used if enough information is available to assign an additional code.
Type 1 Excludes
A type 1 excludes note is a pure excludes note. It means "NOT CODED HERE!" An Excludes1 note indicates that the code excluded should never be used at the same time as the code above the Excludes1 note. An Excludes1 is used when two conditions cannot occur together, such as a congenital form versus an acquired form of the same condition.
Clinical Terms
The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.
Palatine Tonsil
A round-to-oval mass of lymphoid tissue embedded in the lateral wall of the PHARYNX. There is one on each side of the oropharynx in the fauces between the anterior and posterior pillars of the SOFT PALATE.
Peritonsillar Abscess
An accumulation of purulent material in the area between the PALATINE TONSIL and its capsule.
