ICD-10 Code H65.11 – Acute and subacute allergic otitis media (mucoid) (sanguinous) (serous) (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H65.11 – Acute and subacute allergic otitis media (mucoid) (sanguinous) (serous)
What it is
H65.11 identifies acute or subacute allergic otitis media with a nonpurulent middle-ear effusion. Use it when the record describes mucoid, sanguinous, or serous fluid rather than acute bacterial infection.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear fullness, reduced hearing, and a visible middle-ear effusion on exam. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality, acuity, and the fluid description.
When to use this code
Use this code when the clinician documents allergic otitis media with serous, mucoid, or sanguinous effusion and does not describe suppurative disease. It is appropriate for acute or subacute cases in the medical record. Check documentation if the note only says otitis media or ear pain.
Do not use for
Do not use it for acute suppurative otitis media, chronic otitis media, or otitis externa. If the record does not specify allergic or the effusion type, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm the provider’s wording for acuity and effusion type before assigning H65.11.