ICD-10 Code H66.007 – Acute suppurative otitis media without spontaneous rupture of ear drum, recurrent, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H66.007 – Acute suppurative otitis media without spontaneous rupture of ear drum, recurrent, unspecified ear
What it is
This code identifies a recurrent episode of acute suppurative otitis media affecting an unspecified ear, with pus in the middle ear but no spontaneous rupture of the eardrum. Use it when the documentation confirms recurrence and does not specify left or right.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear pain, fever, irritability, and a bulging or erythematous tympanic membrane. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially for evidence of middle-ear infection without perforation.
When to use this code
Use H66.007 when the record clearly states recurrent acute suppurative otitis media and the provider does not identify the affected ear. It also fits when the note says no spontaneous rupture of the eardrum. If laterality is documented, code the specified ear instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for otitis media with spontaneous tympanic membrane rupture, chronic suppurative otitis media, or nonsuppurative ear infections. Check documentation if the episode is not described as recurrent.
Coding tip
Verify both recurrence and laterality before assigning H66.007; unspecified ear should be used only when the record truly lacks that detail.