ICD-10 Code H65.199 – Other acute nonsuppurative otitis media, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H65.199 – Other acute nonsuppurative otitis media, unspecified ear
What it is
This code identifies an acute middle-ear inflammation without pus, when the affected ear is not specified. Use it for nonsuppurative otitis media that is documented as “other” and acute.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear pain, pressure, muffled hearing, and a red or bulging tympanic membrane. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H65.199 when the provider documents acute nonsuppurative otitis media and does not name the right or left ear. It also fits cases described as “other” acute middle-ear inflammation without suppuration. Check documentation if the note suggests otitis media with effusion, serous otitis, or a suppurative infection instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for suppurative otitis media, chronic otitis media, or otitis media with perforation. If the record specifies a right or left ear, use the laterality-specific code instead.
Coding tip
Verify both acuity and laterality in the note before assigning H65.199.