ICD-10 Code H65.115 – Acute and subacute allergic otitis media (mucoid) (sanguinous) (serous), recurrent, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H65.115 – Acute and subacute allergic otitis media (mucoid) (sanguinous) (serous), recurrent, left ear
What it is
This code identifies recurrent allergic otitis media affecting the left ear, with middle-ear effusion that may be mucoid, sanguinous, or serous. Use it when the documentation clearly states the condition and laterality.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include middle-ear fluid, ear fullness, hearing changes, or recurrent ear symptoms. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the described effusion type and confirmation of the left ear.
When to use this code
Use H65.115 when the record documents recurrent acute or subacute allergic otitis media in the left ear, with the specific effusion type noted. It is appropriate when the provider links the episode to allergic otitis media rather than a nonspecific ear infection. Check documentation if recurrence or laterality is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for otitis media without recurrence, without allergic etiology, or without left-ear documentation. If the chart describes a different ear, an unspecified ear, or another otitis media type, choose the matching code.
Coding tip
Verify three elements before coding: recurrent status, left laterality, and the specific allergic otitis media description.