Chronic sialoadenitis

This code represents a persistent, long-standing inflammation of a salivary gland, which can affect any of the major salivary glands (parotid, submandibular, sublingual). It is characterized by recurrent swelling, pain, and sometimes discharge, often leading to fibrosis and impaired salivary function. The chronic nature distinguishes it from acute inflammatory processes.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of chronic inflammation of a salivary gland, supported by a history of recurrent symptoms or imaging findings consistent with long-term inflammation. It is appropriate for conditions like chronic obstructive sialadenitis due to strictures or stones, or chronic non-obstructive forms.

• Differentiate from acute sialadenitis (K11.20, K11.21, K11.22) based on the chronicity documented by the provider.
• If an underlying cause, such as a salivary gland calculus (K11.5) or stricture, is identified, code the underlying cause first, followed by this code.
• Ensure the medical record specifies "chronic" to support the use of this specific subcategory.