ICD-10 Code H73.12 – Chronic myringitis, left ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H73.12 – Chronic myringitis, left ear
What it is
H73.12 identifies chronic inflammation of the left tympanic membrane, also called the eardrum. Use it when documentation specifies a persistent myringitis affecting the left ear.
Clinical signs
Findings may include a chronically inflamed or thickened tympanic membrane, ear discomfort, and possible otorrhea. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use H73.12 when the provider documents chronic myringitis and clearly states the left ear. It is appropriate for ongoing or recurrent inflammation of the eardrum, not a brief acute episode. Check documentation if laterality is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acute myringitis or for middle ear disease without tympanic membrane involvement. If the record does not support chronic left-sided disease, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm both chronicity and laterality in the note before assigning H73.12.