ICD-10 Code H70.223 – Chronic petrositis, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H70.223 – Chronic petrositis, bilateral
What it is
H70.223 identifies chronic inflammation of the petrous portion of the temporal bone on both sides. Use it when the record specifically documents bilateral chronic petrositis.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, records may note persistent ear pain, chronic ear infection findings, or complications involving the mastoid or adjacent temporal bone structures.
When to use this code
Use this code when the clinician documents chronic petrositis affecting both ears or both petrous temporal bones. It may appear in imaging, ENT notes, or problem lists with bilateral involvement clearly stated.
If the note only says petrositis without laterality, check documentation before coding. Do not assume bilateral disease unless the provider explicitly identifies both sides.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute petrositis, unilateral disease, or nonspecific ear infection without petrous bone involvement. Check documentation if the record mentions mastoiditis only.
Coding tip
Always confirm both chronicity and laterality in the provider note before assigning H70.223.