ICD-10 Code H74.90 – Unspecified disorder of middle ear and mastoid, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H74.90 – Unspecified disorder of middle ear and mastoid, unspecified ear
What it is
H74.90 identifies a disorder of the middle ear and mastoid when the chart does not specify the exact condition or which ear is affected. Use it when the diagnosis is documented only in general terms.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Findings may include ear pain, hearing changes, fullness, drainage, or abnormal otoscopic results, but the record must support a middle ear or mastoid disorder.
When to use this code
Use this code when the clinician documents an unspecified middle ear or mastoid disorder and does not name a more specific diagnosis. It also fits when laterality is not stated and no further detail is available. You should code from the documented wording, not from assumptions.
Do not use for
Do not use H74.90 if the record identifies a specific disorder such as otitis media, cholesteatoma, or mastoiditis. Check documentation if the condition is clearly described elsewhere.
Coding tip
If the note is vague, query for the exact disorder and ear before defaulting to this unspecified code.