ICD-10 Code H61.2 – Impacted cerumen (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H61.2 – Impacted cerumen
What it is
H61.2 identifies impacted cerumen, or earwax that has built up and blocked the ear canal. Use it when documentation clearly states cerumen impaction or wax obstruction.
Clinical signs
Common findings include ear fullness, decreased hearing, discomfort, tinnitus, or a visible wax plug on otoscopy. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents impacted cerumen as the diagnosis, whether in one or both ears. It also fits encounters for evaluation or removal of an obstructing wax mass when impaction is confirmed. If the note only mentions cerumen without blockage, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use H61.2 for routine earwax presence without impaction or for other ear canal disorders. If the record describes a different external ear condition, code that diagnosis instead.
Coding tip
Code the condition only when the record supports impaction, not simply cerumen seen during exam.