ICD-10 Code H65.116 – Acute and subacute allergic otitis media (mucoid) (sanguinous) (serous), recurrent, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H65.116 – Acute and subacute allergic otitis media (mucoid) (sanguinous) (serous), recurrent, bilateral
What it is
This code identifies recurrent bilateral otitis media with an allergic or noninfectious middle-ear effusion, described as mucoid, sanguinous, or serous. It applies when both ears are involved and the condition is acute or subacute.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include middle-ear fluid, ear fullness, muffled hearing, and a visible effusion on otoscopy. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record documents recurrent allergic otitis media affecting both ears and specifies the effusion type or acute/subacute status. It is appropriate when the provider clearly links the condition to both sides and recurrence is documented. Check documentation if laterality or recurrence is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unilateral disease, nonspecific otitis media, or cases documented as acute suppurative infection without the allergic/mucoid/serous description. If the chart does not support bilateral recurrence, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm bilateral laterality and recurrent status in the provider note before assigning H65.116.