ICD-10 Code H60.501 – Unspecified acute noninfective otitis externa, right ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.501 – Unspecified acute noninfective otitis externa, right ear
What it is
This code identifies an acute, noninfective inflammation of the external ear canal in the right ear. Use it when the condition is documented as otitis externa and no infectious cause is specified.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear canal pain, tenderness, itching, or swelling. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially when the provider does not specify the cause or laterality differently.
When to use this code
Use H60.501 when the record states acute otitis externa of the right ear and does not identify an infectious organism or another more specific subtype. It also fits when the note says noninfective otitis externa, right ear, without further detail. Check documentation if the provider describes the condition as chronic, bilateral, or infectious.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for infectious otitis externa or for chronic otitis externa. It is also wrong when the affected ear is not the right ear or when documentation supports a more specific code.
Coding tip
Confirm laterality and whether the provider documented a noninfective cause before assigning H60.501.