ICD-10 Code H60.519 – Acute actinic otitis externa, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.519 – Acute actinic otitis externa, unspecified ear
What it is
This code identifies an acute inflammation of the external ear canal caused by sun or ultraviolet exposure, with no ear specified in the documentation. Use it when the record clearly supports actinic otitis externa.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear canal irritation, pain, redness, and swelling after sun exposure. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the affected side and whether the condition is acute.
When to use this code
Use H60.519 when the clinician documents acute actinic otitis externa and does not identify the right or left ear. It also fits when the note describes sun-related external ear inflammation without a more specific laterality. Check documentation if the cause or site is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for non-actinic otitis externa, chronic ear canal disease, or conditions limited to the middle ear. If the note names a different ear, select the laterality-specific code instead.
Coding tip
Confirm both the actinic cause and the unspecified ear before assigning H60.519.