ICD-10 Code H70.209 – Unspecified petrositis, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H70.209 – Unspecified petrositis, unspecified ear
What it is
H70.209 identifies petrositis involving the petrous portion of the temporal bone, but the ear side is not specified. Use it when the record confirms petrositis and does not document right or left ear.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Standard references describe ear pain, mastoid or deep temporal pain, and findings consistent with infection extending to the petrous apex.
When to use this code
Use this code when the clinician documents petrositis and does not identify the affected ear. It is also appropriate when laterality is unavailable in the note, discharge summary, or problem list. Check documentation before coding from imaging alone.
Do not use for
Do not use it for mastoiditis without petrositis, or when the record specifies right or left ear and a laterality-specific code is available. Do not assign it if petrositis is only suspected; check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm both the diagnosis and laterality in the provider note before selecting H70.209.