ICD-10 Code H60.593 – Other noninfective acute otitis externa, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H60.593 – Other noninfective acute otitis externa, bilateral
What it is
This code identifies an acute, noninfective inflammation of the external ear canal affecting both ears. Use it when the condition is bilateral and not caused by infection.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear canal pain, itching, redness, and swelling, sometimes with tenderness when the outer ear is moved. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H60.593 when the provider documents acute otitis externa in both ears and specifically states it is noninfective. It may apply to irritation, allergy, or other noninfectious inflammation of the ear canal. If the record does not confirm bilateral involvement or noninfectious cause, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for infectious otitis externa, chronic ear canal disease, or cases limited to one ear. If the note does not clearly support “other noninfective” and “bilateral,” choose a different code or check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm both laterality and noninfectious etiology in the provider note before assigning H60.593.