ICD-10 Code H66.43 – Suppurative otitis media, unspecified, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H66.43 – Suppurative otitis media, unspecified, bilateral
What it is
H66.43 identifies suppurative otitis media affecting both ears when the type is not further specified. Use it for a bilateral middle-ear infection with pus or purulent drainage documented, but without a more specific otitis media subtype.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear pain, fever, hearing complaints, and a bulging or inflamed tympanic membrane; drainage may be present if the eardrum has perforated. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents suppurative otitis media in both ears and does not name acute, chronic, or other specific categories. It is also appropriate when laterality is bilateral and the record supports a nonspecific suppurative diagnosis. Check documentation if the note mentions another otitis media subtype.
Do not use for
Do not use H66.43 for unilateral disease, nonsuppurative otitis media, or otitis externa. If the record specifies a more exact otitis media code, report that code instead.
Coding tip
Confirm both laterality and the word “suppurative” in the note before assigning H66.43.