ICD-10 Code H66.92 – Otitis media, unspecified, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H66.92 – Otitis media, unspecified, left ear
What it is
This code identifies otitis media affecting the left ear when the record does not specify the type. It tells you the infection or inflammation is in the middle ear, but the documentation is nonspecific.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear pain, muffled hearing, fever, or a bulging tympanic membrane. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H66.92 when the provider documents otitis media in the left ear and does not name it as acute, chronic, serous, or another subtype. It is appropriate when laterality is clear but the exact form is not. If the record supports a more specific diagnosis, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if the documentation identifies a specific otitis media type or if the condition is in the right ear or bilateral. Check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the highest documented specificity first, and use this unspecified code only when the chart truly lacks a more precise middle-ear diagnosis.