ICD-10 Code H66.006 – Acute suppurative otitis media without spontaneous rupture of ear drum, recurrent, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H66.006 – Acute suppurative otitis media without spontaneous rupture of ear drum, recurrent, bilateral
What it is
This code identifies a recurrent episode of acute suppurative otitis media affecting both ears, with pus in the middle ear but no spontaneous rupture of the tympanic membrane. Use it when documentation clearly states bilateral involvement.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear pain, fever, irritability, and a bulging, erythematous tympanic membrane. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially when the note specifies recurrent infection and no ear drum rupture.
When to use this code
Use H66.006 when the provider documents recurrent acute suppurative otitis media in both ears and states that the eardrums remain intact. It is appropriate for encounters focused on the current bilateral infection, not a resolved prior episode. Check documentation if laterality or recurrence is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for otitis media with spontaneous rupture, chronic suppurative otitis media, or nonsuppurative middle ear disease. If the record does not confirm bilateral disease, recurrent status, or intact tympanic membranes, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify three elements in the note: recurrent, bilateral, and without spontaneous rupture; missing any one of them can change the code.