ICD-10 Code H60.13 – Cellulitis of external ear, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.13 – Cellulitis of external ear, bilateral
What it is
H60.13 identifies cellulitis affecting both external ears. It means a bilateral bacterial infection of the outer ear skin and soft tissue, not the middle ear or ear canal.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include redness, swelling, warmth, tenderness, and pain of both pinnae. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation if the record does not clearly describe bilateral external ear involvement.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents cellulitis of the external ear on both sides, or clearly describes bilateral auricular skin infection. It is appropriate when the infection is limited to the outer ear and not another ear condition. Check documentation if laterality is unclear or only one ear is involved.
Do not use for
Do not use H60.13 for otitis externa, middle ear infection, or unspecified ear cellulitis without bilateral external ear documentation. If the note does not confirm both ears, code only what is documented.
Coding tip
Confirm both laterality and anatomic site in the provider note before assigning H60.13.