ICD-10 Code H66.016 – Acute suppurative otitis media with spontaneous rupture of ear drum, recurrent, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H66.016 – Acute suppurative otitis media with spontaneous rupture of ear drum, recurrent, bilateral
What it is
This code identifies a recurrent, acute bacterial middle ear infection in both ears with pus and a spontaneous perforation of the eardrum. It reflects active suppurative otitis media, not a past or resolved episode.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear pain, fever, drainage from the ear after eardrum rupture, and evidence of middle ear infection on exam. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H66.016 when the record documents recurrent acute suppurative otitis media affecting both ears with spontaneous tympanic membrane rupture. You should see clear provider wording for recurrence, bilateral involvement, and perforation without trauma.
Apply it when the diagnosis is current and supported by the note, not when only a history of otitis media is mentioned. Check documentation if laterality or recurrence is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonsuppurative otitis media, chronic otitis media, or ear drum rupture caused by injury or surgery. Do not use if the chart does not confirm bilateral recurrent disease.
Coding tip
Verify three elements in the note: acute suppurative infection, spontaneous rupture, and bilateral recurrence.