ICD-10 Code H65.01 – Acute serous otitis media, right ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H65.01 – Acute serous otitis media, right ear
What it is
H65.01 identifies a sudden episode of serous otitis media affecting the right ear. It means fluid is present in the middle ear without the findings of acute bacterial infection.
Clinical signs
Common findings include ear fullness, muffled hearing, and reduced tympanic membrane mobility on exam. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly documents acute serous otitis media in the right ear. Apply it for unilateral right-sided middle-ear effusion when the provider specifies the acute serous form. Check documentation if the note only says otitis media or ear pain.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for left ear, bilateral disease, or unspecified ear. It is also not the right choice for other otitis media types unless the documentation specifically supports acute serous otitis media.
Coding tip
Always confirm laterality and the exact otitis media type before assigning H65.01.