Geniculate ganglionitis

Geniculate ganglionitis refers to inflammation of the geniculate ganglion, a sensory ganglion of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII). This condition typically presents with severe, deep ear pain (otalgia) and may be accompanied by facial nerve dysfunction, such as facial weakness or paralysis, taste disturbances, and hyperacusis.

This code is appropriate for documenting cases of geniculate ganglion inflammation when the etiology is not attributed to a previous herpes zoster infection. Documentation should clearly indicate symptoms consistent with geniculate ganglion involvement, such as otalgia, facial nerve palsy, or taste changes, and rule out a history of shingles affecting the geniculate ganglion.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "geniculate ganglionitis" and does not mention a history of herpes zoster.
• Distinguish carefully from postherpetic geniculate ganglionitis (Ramsay Hunt syndrome), which has a specific Excludes1 code.
• Look for associated symptoms like facial paralysis (Bell's palsy-like presentation), hyperacusis, or dysgeusia to support the diagnosis.