ICD-10 Code H61.029 – Chronic perichondritis of external ear, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H61.029 – Chronic perichondritis of external ear, unspecified ear
What it is
This code identifies a chronic inflammatory condition involving the perichondrium of the external ear. Use it when documentation specifies long-standing perichondritis and does not name a right or left ear.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical notes may describe persistent auricular pain, swelling, redness, tenderness, or deformity of the outer ear.
When to use this code
Use H61.029 when the record clearly states chronic perichondritis of the external ear and laterality is not documented. It also fits follow-up visits for an ongoing condition when the diagnosis remains active. If the chart describes a different ear disorder, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute perichondritis, cellulitis, otitis externa, or trauma without perichondrial involvement. If the ear side is documented, choose the laterality-specific code instead.
Coding tip
Confirm that “chronic” and “external ear” are both stated in the note before assigning H61.029.