ICD-10 Code H60.51 – Acute actinic otitis externa (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.51 – Acute actinic otitis externa
What it is
H60.51 identifies acute inflammation of the external ear canal caused by sun or ultraviolet exposure. Use it when the record specifically documents actinic otitis externa.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear canal redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain after sun exposure. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H60.51 when the clinician documents acute actinic otitis externa or a similar sun-related external ear canal inflammation. Apply it when the diagnosis is clearly limited to the external ear and not a broader otitis condition. Check documentation if the note only says ear pain or irritation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific otitis externa, swimmer’s ear, or middle ear infections. If the cause is not actinic exposure, choose the documented condition instead.
Coding tip
Look for explicit documentation of actinic or sun-related cause before assigning H60.51.