ICD-10 Code H73.90 – Unspecified disorder of tympanic membrane, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H73.90 – Unspecified disorder of tympanic membrane, unspecified ear
What it is
H73.90 identifies a disorder of the tympanic membrane, or eardrum, when the chart does not specify the exact condition or which ear is involved. Use it when documentation only states a nonspecific eardrum abnormality.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, the record may note an abnormal eardrum appearance, such as scarring, retraction, perforation, or other nonspecific membrane change, without a more precise diagnosis.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents an unspecified tympanic membrane disorder and does not name a more specific diagnosis. It also fits when the ear side is not identified in the note. If laterality or the exact condition is documented, code that specific option instead.
Do not use for
Do not use H73.90 for acute otitis media, external ear disease, or a clearly documented tympanic membrane perforation when a more specific code is available. Check documentation if the diagnosis is more detailed.
Coding tip
Look for the exact ear side and the precise membrane finding before defaulting to this unspecified code.