ICD-10 Code H73.012 – Bullous myringitis, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H73.012 – Bullous myringitis, left ear
What it is
H73.012 identifies bullous myringitis affecting the left ear. It means the eardrum has painful fluid-filled blisters, usually from an inflammatory ear condition.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include ear pain, possible hearing discomfort, and visible bullae on the tympanic membrane. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H73.012 when the provider documents bullous myringitis specifically in the left ear. It may appear as the primary diagnosis or as a documented ear finding during evaluation for otalgia or middle-ear inflammation. Do not infer laterality if the record does not state it.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific otitis media, external ear infection, or right or bilateral ear disease. Check documentation if the record does not clearly identify bullous myringitis.
Coding tip
Confirm the word “left” in the provider note before assigning H73.012.