ICD-10 Code H73.20 – Unspecified myringitis, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H73.20 – Unspecified myringitis, unspecified ear
What it is
Use this code for inflammation of the tympanic membrane when the ear is not specified. It indicates myringitis without a more precise cause or laterality in the documentation.
Clinical signs
Typical findings may include ear pain, a red or inflamed tympanic membrane, and possible hearing discomfort. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Assign H73.20 when the provider documents myringitis but does not identify the affected ear or a more specific type. Use it for nonspecific records that clearly support tympanic membrane inflammation. If laterality or a more detailed diagnosis is documented, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for otitis media, otitis externa, or other ear disorders unless myringitis is specifically documented. Check documentation when the chart describes a different membrane condition.
Coding tip
Look for the word “myringitis” in the assessment and confirm that no ear side or more specific diagnosis is recorded.