ICD-10 Code H68.021 – Chronic Eustachian salpingitis, right ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H68.021 – Chronic Eustachian salpingitis, right ear
What it is
H68.021 identifies chronic inflammation of the Eustachian tube in the right ear. Use it when documentation specifies a long-standing salpingitis affecting the right side.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, records may note ear fullness, pressure, hearing changes, or recurrent middle-ear dysfunction linked to Eustachian tube inflammation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents chronic Eustachian salpingitis limited to the right ear. It is appropriate for outpatient, inpatient, or problem-list coding when the diagnosis is confirmed and laterality is stated.
Code from the clinician’s wording, especially if the note distinguishes chronic disease from acute or unspecified Eustachian tube disorder. Check documentation if laterality is unclear or if another ear condition better explains the visit.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute Eustachian salpingitis, bilateral disease, or unspecified Eustachian tube disorder. Check documentation when the record only mentions ear pain or otitis without chronic salpingitis.
Coding tip
Verify both chronicity and right-ear laterality in the chart before assigning H68.021.