ICD-10 Code H70.219 – Acute petrositis, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H70.219 – Acute petrositis, unspecified ear
What it is
H70.219 identifies acute inflammation or infection of the petrous portion of the temporal bone when the affected ear is not specified. Use it for documented acute petrositis, not for general ear infection.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly noted findings include ear pain, otologic infection, and signs suggesting spread beyond a routine ear infection, but the record must support petrous involvement.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents acute petrositis and does not identify the right or left ear. It fits encounters where imaging, exam, or specialist assessment supports petrous bone involvement. If the chart only says otitis or mastoiditis, check documentation before assigning H70.219.
Do not use for
Do not use it for uncomplicated otitis media, mastoiditis, or chronic petrositis unless the provider specifically documents acute petrositis. If the ear side is known, choose the more specific code.
Coding tip
Confirm both acuity and laterality in the note; if either is missing, query the provider or code only what is clearly documented.