ICD-10 Code H81.22 – Vestibular neuronitis, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H81.22 – Vestibular neuronitis, left ear
What it is
This code identifies vestibular neuronitis affecting the left ear. It refers to inflammation or dysfunction of the vestibular nerve causing sudden balance disturbance, without hearing loss as the main feature.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include acute vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and unsteady gait. Hearing is usually preserved; if hearing loss is present, check documentation for a different diagnosis.
When to use this code
Use H81.22 when the provider documents vestibular neuronitis specifically in the left ear. It may be used for an acute balance disorder with unilateral localization documented by the clinician. If the laterality is not stated, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for benign positional vertigo, Ménière disease, or labyrinthitis. Also avoid it when the record does not clearly support left-sided involvement.
Coding tip
Confirm both the diagnosis and laterality in the note before assigning H81.22.