ICD-10 Code H60.20 – Malignant otitis externa, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.20 – Malignant otitis externa, unspecified ear
What it is
H60.20 identifies malignant otitis externa when the affected ear is not specified. It refers to a severe infection of the external ear canal that can extend beyond local tissue.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include persistent ear pain, drainage, and tenderness of the external ear canal. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H60.20 when the record clearly states malignant otitis externa but does not identify right or left ear. You should also use it when documentation supports the diagnosis and laterality is not available. If the note specifies an ear, code the laterality instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for routine otitis externa, swimmer’s ear, or nonspecific ear pain without documentation of malignant otitis externa. Check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify whether the provider documented right, left, or unspecified ear before assigning H60.20.