ICD-10 Code H60.23 – Malignant otitis externa, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.23 – Malignant otitis externa, bilateral
What it is
H60.23 identifies malignant otitis externa affecting both ears. It is a severe, invasive infection of the external ear canal that can extend beyond the canal and requires careful documentation.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include severe ear pain, ear canal swelling, and drainage, sometimes with granulation tissue. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for bilateral involvement and extent.
When to use this code
Use H60.23 when the provider documents malignant otitis externa in both ears, or bilateral necrotizing otitis externa. Code only when the diagnosis is clearly stated in the record. If laterality is not documented, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for uncomplicated otitis externa, swimmer’s ear, or external ear pain without documented malignant disease. Do not assume bilateral disease from symptoms alone.
Coding tip
Verify that the record explicitly supports both malignant otitis externa and bilateral laterality before coding H60.23.