ICD-10 Code H60.552 – Acute reactive otitis externa, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.552 – Acute reactive otitis externa, left ear
What it is
H60.552 identifies an acute reactive inflammation of the external ear canal in the left ear. Use it when documentation clearly states reactive otitis externa affecting that side.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Standard findings may include ear canal redness, swelling, tenderness, or discomfort, but you should code only when the record supports a left-sided acute reactive process.
When to use this code
Use this code when the clinician documents acute reactive otitis externa specifically in the left ear. It may apply in evaluations where the external canal is inflamed after irritation or another local ear condition, but the note must support the diagnosis.
If laterality is stated as left and the condition is acute and reactive, this code is appropriate. Check documentation if the record instead describes diffuse otitis externa, chronic disease, or an unspecified ear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for right ear, bilateral, or unspecified otitis externa. Also avoid it when the chart documents a different ear disorder or when reactive inflammation is not clearly stated.
Coding tip
Confirm both laterality and the exact wording “acute reactive otitis externa” before assigning H60.552.