ICD-10 Code H66.00 – Acute suppurative otitis media without spontaneous rupture of ear drum (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H66.00 – Acute suppurative otitis media without spontaneous rupture of ear drum
What it is
This code identifies an acute middle-ear infection with pus, but without a spontaneous perforation of the tympanic membrane. Use it when the provider documents suppurative otitis media and no ear drum rupture.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear pain, fever, irritability, and a bulging or inflamed tympanic membrane. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation when the note does not clearly confirm suppuration or absence of rupture.
When to use this code
Use H66.00 when the record states acute suppurative otitis media and specifically notes that the ear drum has not ruptured spontaneously. It also fits when the provider documents purulent middle-ear infection without perforation. If laterality is documented elsewhere, check whether a more specific code applies.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for otitis media with spontaneous tympanic membrane rupture or for chronic ear infections. Check documentation if the note describes nonsuppurative, serous, or unspecified otitis media instead.
Coding tip
Confirm both “acute suppurative” and “without spontaneous rupture” in the note before assigning H66.00.