ICD-10 Code H65.499 – Other chronic nonsuppurative otitis media, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H65.499 – Other chronic nonsuppurative otitis media, unspecified ear
What it is
This code identifies chronic middle ear inflammation without pus, affecting an ear that is not specified as right or left. Use it when the record documents a persistent, non-suppurative otitis media but does not name the side.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include chronic ear fullness, hearing change, or a persistent middle ear effusion without acute drainage. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H65.499 when the clinician documents chronic nonsuppurative otitis media and the laterality is not stated. It also fits cases where the note clearly supports chronic nonpurulent middle ear disease but does not specify right or left ear. Check documentation if the record suggests a more specific otitis media type.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute, suppurative, or perforated otitis media. If the chart identifies a specific ear or another otitis media subtype, choose the more precise code.
Coding tip
Confirm whether the provider documented laterality before assigning the unspecified-ear code.