ICD-10 Code H65.119 – Acute and subacute allergic otitis media (mucoid) (sanguinous) (serous), unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H65.119 – Acute and subacute allergic otitis media (mucoid) (sanguinous) (serous), unspecified ear
What it is
This code identifies allergic otitis media affecting an unspecified ear, with acute or subacute onset. It refers to a noninfectious middle ear condition marked by abnormal fluid in the middle ear space.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include middle ear effusion, ear fullness, and hearing difficulty. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality, fluid type, and whether the episode is acute or subacute.
When to use this code
Use H65.119 when the record documents allergic otitis media and does not specify right or left ear. It may also apply when the note describes serous, mucoid, or sanguinous middle ear fluid. Check documentation for any more specific otitis media code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for suppurative or acute infectious otitis media. If the ear side is documented, choose the laterality-specific code instead.
Coding tip
Confirm both the allergic nature and the unspecified ear before assigning H65.119.