ICD-10 Code H61.00 – Unspecified perichondritis of external ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H61.00 – Unspecified perichondritis of external ear
What it is
This code identifies inflammation of the tissue around the cartilage of the outer ear when the documentation does not specify the cause or side. Use it when the record states perichondritis of the external ear without further detail.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness over the auricle. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation if the note does not clearly describe the involved ear structures.
When to use this code
Use H61.00 when the provider documents perichondritis of the external ear but does not identify a more specific type, site, or cause. It also fits when the chart confirms auricular cartilage inflammation and no laterality or etiology is recorded. If the documentation is more specific, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for otitis externa, cellulitis of the ear, or perichondritis documented with a more specific code. Check documentation if the note names a traumatic, postoperative, or infectious cause.
Coding tip
Before assigning H61.00, confirm that the provider truly documented external ear perichondritis and that no more specific code is available.