ICD-10 Code B05.3 – Measles complicated by otitis media (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B05.3 – Measles complicated by otitis media
What it is
B05.3 identifies measles when the infection is documented with otitis media. Use it for a confirmed measles case that includes middle ear inflammation as a complication.
Clinical signs
Typical measles features include fever, cough, coryza, conjunctivitis, and the characteristic rash. Otitis media may present with ear pain, irritability, or findings of middle ear infection; clinical features vary, refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents measles and specifically notes otitis media as associated with the illness. It is appropriate when the ear infection is part of the measles complication, not a separate unrelated diagnosis. Check documentation if the record is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use B05.3 for measles without otitis media, or for otitis media without measles. If the note only says “ear infection” or the complication is not specified, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code B05.3 only when otitis media is clearly linked to measles in the provider’s documentation.