ICD-10 Code H60.22 – Malignant otitis externa, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.22 – Malignant otitis externa, left ear
What it is
This code identifies malignant otitis externa affecting the left ear. It refers to a severe infection of the external ear canal that can extend to nearby tissue.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include persistent ear pain, drainage, and tenderness of the external ear canal. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation if the record does not clearly specify left-sided disease.
When to use this code
Use H60.22 when the provider documents malignant otitis externa in the left ear. Apply it for confirmed cases involving the left external ear canal, including notes that specify necrotizing or malignant otitis externa on that side.
Check documentation if laterality is unclear or if the diagnosis is only suspected. Do not infer the code from generic otitis externa wording without a clear left-ear designation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for routine otitis externa, unspecified ear infection, or right-sided disease. If the chart does not confirm malignant otitis externa of the left ear, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm both the malignant otitis externa diagnosis and the left-ear laterality before assigning H60.22.