ICD-10 Code H61.001 – Unspecified perichondritis of right external ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H61.001 – Unspecified perichondritis of right external ear
What it is
H61.001 identifies inflammation of the perichondrium of the right external ear when the documentation does not specify the cause or type. Use it for right-sided auricular perichondritis without further detail.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness of the outer ear, usually sparing the earlobe. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents perichondritis of the right external ear and does not name it as traumatic, infectious, or other specified type. It also fits when the record clearly identifies the right ear but leaves the etiology unspecified. Check documentation if laterality or cause is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for left or bilateral ear involvement, or when the provider specifies a different type of perichondritis. Do not assign it if the condition is documented only as auricular cellulitis or another ear disorder.
Coding tip
Confirm right-sided laterality and unspecified etiology in the note before assigning H61.001.