ICD-10 Code H66.4 – Suppurative otitis media, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H66.4 – Suppurative otitis media, unspecified
What it is
H66.4 identifies suppurative otitis media when the ear infection is described as purulent but the affected ear and laterality are not specified. Use it when the record clearly supports suppurative middle ear infection without more detail.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear pain, fever, and evidence of middle ear infection with drainage or pus. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the clinician documents suppurative otitis media but does not specify right, left, or bilateral involvement. It also fits when the note supports a purulent middle ear infection and no more specific ICD-10-CM option is recorded. Check documentation for acuity and laterality.
Do not use for
Do not use H66.4 if the record specifies a different otitis media type, such as serous or nonsuppurative disease. Also avoid it when laterality is documented and a more specific code is available.
Coding tip
Query for laterality and acuity before assigning H66.4, because unspecified coding should be a fallback, not the first choice.