ICD-10 Code H61.32 – Acquired stenosis of external ear canal secondary to inflammation and infection (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H61.32 – Acquired stenosis of external ear canal secondary to inflammation and infection
What it is
H61.32 identifies narrowing of the external ear canal that develops after inflammation or infection. Use it when the stenosis is acquired, not congenital, and the cause is documented as inflammatory or infectious.
Clinical signs
Patients may have a narrowed ear canal with reduced visibility on otoscopy, recurrent debris, or hearing difficulty. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record specifically states acquired stenosis of the external ear canal due to inflammation or infection. It fits follow-up visits, specialty evaluations, or problem lists when the diagnosis remains active. Check documentation if the note only describes canal swelling, otitis externa, or cerumen without confirmed stenosis.
Do not use for
Do not use it for congenital ear canal narrowing or for temporary swelling without true stenosis. If the provider documents a different ear disorder, code that condition instead.
Coding tip
Confirm both “acquired stenosis” and the inflammatory or infectious cause in the chart before assigning H61.32.