ICD-10 Code H66.012 – Acute suppurative otitis media with spontaneous rupture of ear drum, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H66.012 – Acute suppurative otitis media with spontaneous rupture of ear drum, left ear
What it is
This code identifies an acute middle-ear infection in the left ear with pus and a spontaneous perforation of the eardrum. It is used when documentation specifies suppurative otitis media and left-sided drum rupture.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear pain, drainage from the ear, and evidence of acute infection. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality and whether the eardrum ruptured spontaneously.
When to use this code
Use H66.012 when the provider documents acute suppurative otitis media affecting the left ear and states that the tympanic membrane ruptured on its own. It is appropriate when the record clearly links the infection, pus, and left-sided perforation. Check documentation if laterality or rupture status is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonsuppurative otitis media, chronic ear infection, or otitis media without spontaneous rupture. If the left ear is not documented, or the condition is only suspected, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify both the acute suppurative infection and left-ear spontaneous rupture before assigning H66.012.