ICD-10 Code H60.542 – Acute eczematoid otitis externa, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.542 – Acute eczematoid otitis externa, left ear
What it is
This code identifies acute eczematoid inflammation of the external ear canal in the left ear. Use it when documentation specifies the left side and an eczematous otitis externa pattern.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include itching, redness, scaling, and irritation of the external ear canal. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality and whether the condition is acute and eczematoid.
When to use this code
Use H60.542 when the provider documents acute eczematoid otitis externa affecting the left ear. It is appropriate when the note clearly identifies the ear canal involvement and left-sided laterality.
If the record only says otitis externa or dermatitis without the eczematoid description, check documentation before assigning this code. You need enough specificity to support both the acute eczematoid diagnosis and the left ear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for otitis media, unspecified otitis externa, or right-sided disease. Check documentation if the chart does not clearly support acute eczematoid otitis externa of the left ear.
Coding tip
Always verify laterality; H60.542 is specific to the left ear, and missing side documentation should be queried before coding.