ICD-10 Code H60.531 – Acute contact otitis externa, right ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.531 – Acute contact otitis externa, right ear
What it is
H60.531 identifies acute inflammation of the external ear canal in the right ear caused by contact irritation or allergy. Use it when documentation specifies the right side and a contact-related trigger.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear canal redness, swelling, itching, tenderness, or discomfort after exposure to an irritant or allergen. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents acute contact otitis externa affecting the right ear. It is appropriate when the note links the condition to contact dermatitis, topical exposure, or another contact trigger. Check documentation if laterality or cause is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for left ear or bilateral disease, or when the otitis externa is not described as contact-related. Do not assign it if the record only says “otitis externa”; check documentation.
Coding tip
Capture both the acute contact cause and right-ear laterality exactly as documented before assigning H60.531.