ICD-10 Code H65.113 – Acute and subacute allergic otitis media (mucoid) (sanguinous) (serous), bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H65.113 – Acute and subacute allergic otitis media (mucoid) (sanguinous) (serous), bilateral
What it is
H65.113 identifies bilateral middle-ear inflammation with nonpurulent fluid, described as allergic, mucoid, sanguinous, or serous. Use it when the record specifies both ears and the condition is acute or subacute.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear fullness, muffled hearing, and visible middle-ear effusion on otoscopic exam. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality and whether the effusion is serous, mucoid, or sanguinous.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents acute or subacute allergic otitis media affecting both ears. It is appropriate when the note clearly supports bilateral involvement and a nonpurulent effusion. Check documentation if the record only says otitis media without laterality.
Do not use for
Do not use it for unilateral disease, chronic otitis media, or acute suppurative otitis media. If the chart does not specify allergic, serous, mucoid, or sanguinous features, check documentation before assigning H65.113.
Coding tip
Confirm bilateral laterality and the exact effusion type in the provider note before coding.