ICD-10 Code H60.52 – Acute chemical otitis externa (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.52 – Acute chemical otitis externa
What it is
H60.52 identifies acute inflammation of the external ear canal caused by chemical exposure. Use it when documentation states the otitis externa is specifically due to a chemical irritant or injury.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear canal redness, swelling, pain, itching, and irritation after exposure to a chemical agent. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly links the acute otitis externa to a chemical cause, such as exposure to a cleaning product, solvent, or other irritant. It is appropriate when the provider documents chemical otitis externa, chemical burn of the ear canal, or similar wording. Check documentation if the cause is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use H60.52 for infectious otitis externa, swimmer’s ear, or unspecified ear canal inflammation. If the note does not identify a chemical cause, choose a more specific or unspecified code based on documentation.
Coding tip
Code H60.52 only when the chemical etiology is explicitly documented; otherwise, query or code the condition as documented.