ICD-10 Code H65.493 – Other chronic nonsuppurative otitis media, bilateral (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H65.493 – Other chronic nonsuppurative otitis media, bilateral
What it is
This code identifies chronic inflammation of the middle ear in both ears without pus or active perforation. Use it when the record specifies a nonsuppurative, bilateral otitis media that does not fit a more specific category.
Clinical signs
Findings commonly include persistent ear fullness, reduced hearing, or a history of recurrent middle ear disease. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, especially when the note distinguishes chronic nonsuppurative disease from acute infection or suppurative otitis media.
When to use this code
Use H65.493 when the provider documents chronic nonsuppurative otitis media affecting both ears. It is appropriate when bilateral disease is confirmed and no more specific chronic otitis media code applies. Check documentation if the note only mentions ear pain, effusion, or unspecified otitis media.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute otitis media, suppurative otitis media, or chronic ear disease limited to one ear. If the documentation does not clearly state bilateral chronic nonsuppurative otitis media, check documentation before assigning H65.493.
Coding tip
Confirm both laterality and the nonsuppurative chronic type in the provider note before coding.