ICD-10 Code H60.543 – Acute eczematoid otitis externa, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.543 – Acute eczematoid otitis externa, bilateral
What it is
This code identifies an acute eczematoid inflammation of the outer ear canal in both ears. It is used when the condition is documented as bilateral and eczema-like rather than infectious.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include itching, redness, scaling, and irritation of the external ear canals. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality and whether the process is acute and eczematoid.
When to use this code
Use H60.543 when the provider documents acute eczematoid otitis externa affecting both ears. You may also use it when the note clearly describes bilateral eczematous inflammation of the ear canal without a different, more specific diagnosis.
Check documentation if the record mentions infection, trauma, or another type of otitis externa, because those details may require a different code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unilateral disease or for otitis externa described as infectious, swimmer’s ear, or due to another specified cause. Check documentation if the diagnosis is unclear.
Coding tip
Confirm both the acute eczematoid description and bilateral laterality before assigning H60.543.