ICD-10 Code H60.5 – Acute noninfective otitis externa (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.5 – Acute noninfective otitis externa
What it is
Acute noninfective otitis externa is short-term inflammation of the external ear canal that is not caused by infection. Use this code when the chart documents irritation, allergy, or another noninfectious cause affecting the outer ear canal.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear canal redness, swelling, itching, pain, or tenderness, with no evidence of bacterial or fungal infection. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H60.5 when the provider clearly documents acute otitis externa as noninfective, such as dermatitis, chemical irritation, or allergic inflammation of the ear canal. Code it when the condition is limited to the external canal and the record does not support infection. Check documentation if the cause is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for infectious otitis externa or for chronic external ear conditions. If the record does not specify noninfective acute disease, check documentation before assigning H60.5.
Coding tip
Look for the word “noninfective” or a documented noninfectious cause before coding H60.5.