Disturbance of salivary secretion

This code represents a general dysfunction in the production or flow of saliva, encompassing both excessive (sialorrhea/ptyalism) and insufficient (xerostomia/hyposalivation) salivary output. It indicates an abnormal state of the salivary glands that is not otherwise specified as an inflammatory, obstructive, or neoplastic condition.

Use this code when documentation indicates a patient is experiencing either significantly increased or decreased salivary secretion without a more specific underlying diagnosis. This is appropriate for symptoms like dry mouth or excessive drooling when the etiology is not yet determined or is non-specific. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing symptoms of xerostomia or sialorrhea.

• Do not use this code if a more specific cause for the salivary disturbance, such as Sjogren's syndrome (710.2) or salivary gland calculus (527.5), is identified.
• Consider an additional code for any underlying systemic conditions contributing to the salivary disturbance, such as medication side effects or autoimmune disorders.
• This code is often used as a primary diagnosis for symptomatic management of salivary issues when a definitive etiology is pending or not found.