ICD-10 Code H65.197 – Other acute nonsuppurative otitis media recurrent, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H65.197 – Other acute nonsuppurative otitis media recurrent, unspecified ear
What it is
This code identifies a recurrent episode of acute nonsuppurative otitis media affecting an unspecified ear. It describes middle ear inflammation with fluid or pressure, without pus, when the side is not documented.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear pain, fullness, decreased hearing, or a recent upper respiratory infection. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for whether the episode is recurrent and whether the diagnosis is limited to one ear or both.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents recurrent acute nonsuppurative otitis media and does not specify right or left ear. It is appropriate when the record supports middle ear inflammation without suppuration. If the note only says otitis media, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use it for otitis media with pus, chronic otitis media, or cases with a specified ear side when a laterality-specific code is available. Check documentation if the condition is not described as recurrent.
Coding tip
Confirm both recurrence and laterality in the provider note before coding H65.197.