ICD-10 Code H66.93 – Otitis media, unspecified, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H66.93 – Otitis media, unspecified, bilateral
What it is
H66.93 identifies otitis media affecting both ears when the record does not specify the type. Use it for bilateral middle ear infection or inflammation documented without further detail.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include ear pain, fever, ear fullness, decreased hearing, or an abnormal tympanic membrane on exam.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents bilateral otitis media and does not identify whether it is acute, chronic, serous, or another subtype. It also fits when both ears are involved but laterality-specific detail is limited to “bilateral.”
If the note gives a more specific otitis media diagnosis, code that instead. Check documentation for laterality, acuity, and any related complications before assigning H66.93.
Do not use for
Do not use H66.93 when the record specifies a different otitis media type or a unilateral condition. Avoid it for external ear infections or isolated ear pain without a documented middle ear diagnosis.
Coding tip
Code the most specific otitis media term documented, and default to H66.93 only when bilateral disease is clear but the subtype is not.