ICD-10 Code H65 – Nonsuppurative Otitis Media (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H65 – Nonsuppurative otitis media
What it is
H65 identifies inflammation of the middle ear without pus. It covers nonsuppurative otitis media, which may be acute or chronic depending on the documentation.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include ear pain, hearing changes, fullness, or a middle-ear effusion without purulent drainage.
When to use this code
Use H65 when the provider documents nonsuppurative otitis media and does not describe a suppurative or perforated process. It is appropriate for middle-ear inflammation with fluid or other nonpurulent findings. Check documentation for laterality and any more specific subtype before assigning the code.
Do not use for
Do not use H65 for suppurative otitis media, perforated tympanic membrane, or external ear infections. If the record identifies a more specific otitis media type, code that instead.
Coding tip
Look for the provider’s exact otitis media type and laterality, then choose the most specific code supported by the note.