ICD-10 Code H60.32 – Hemorrhagic otitis externa (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.32 – Hemorrhagic otitis externa
What it is
H60.32 identifies hemorrhagic otitis externa, an inflammation of the external ear canal with bleeding or blood-stained discharge. Use it when documentation specifically describes hemorrhagic involvement of the outer ear canal.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear canal inflammation, pain, swelling, and visible bleeding or bloody drainage. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the exact laterality and presentation.
When to use this code
Use H60.32 when the provider documents hemorrhagic otitis externa, hemorrhagic external otitis, or an equivalent diagnosis affecting the external auditory canal. Assign it when the record clearly supports bleeding as part of the otitis externa diagnosis. Check documentation if the note only says otitis externa without hemorrhagic detail.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for middle ear infection, simple otitis externa without bleeding, or ear canal trauma unless the provider links it to hemorrhagic otitis externa. Check documentation for the correct diagnosis.
Coding tip
Code only when hemorrhagic otitis externa is explicitly documented; otherwise, select the more general otitis externa code.