ICD-10 Code H61.02 – Chronic perichondritis of external ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H61.02 – Chronic perichondritis of external ear
What it is
H61.02 identifies chronic inflammation of the external ear’s perichondrium, the tissue around the cartilage. It is used when the condition is persistent or recurrent rather than acute.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include external ear tenderness, swelling, redness, and cartilage involvement. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H61.02 when the provider documents chronic perichondritis of the pinna or auricle. Apply it for ongoing or recurrent inflammation affecting the external ear cartilage, especially when the note clearly distinguishes it from acute infection or simple cellulitis.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute perichondritis or for nonspecific ear pain without documented perichondrial inflammation. Check documentation if the record describes another external ear disorder instead.
Coding tip
Code only when the documentation clearly states “chronic perichondritis” or an equivalent term for the external ear.