ICD-10 Code H73.002 – Acute myringitis, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H73.002 – Acute myringitis, left ear
What it is
H73.002 identifies acute inflammation of the left tympanic membrane, also called the eardrum. Use it when documentation specifically states acute myringitis in the left ear.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear pain, a red or inflamed tympanic membrane, and possible hearing discomfort. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents acute myringitis limited to the left ear. It may appear with otoscopic findings of tympanic membrane inflammation without another more specific ear diagnosis. If the note is unclear about laterality or acuity, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use it for nonspecific otitis media, chronic myringitis, or right or bilateral ear disease. If the record does not clearly identify acute left-sided myringitis, check documentation.
Coding tip
Always confirm both acuity and laterality in the provider note before assigning H73.002.