ICD-10 Code H74.19 – Adhesive middle ear disease, unspecified ear (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H74.19 – Adhesive middle ear disease, unspecified ear
What it is
H74.19 identifies adhesive middle ear disease affecting an unspecified ear. It describes abnormal sticking or scarring within the middle ear that limits normal movement; check documentation for the exact ear when available.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly reported findings include chronic middle ear changes, retracted tympanic membrane, and hearing loss related to impaired ossicular movement.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents adhesive middle ear disease but does not specify right or left ear. It is appropriate for confirmed diagnoses in outpatient, inpatient, or specialty ear documentation. If the record identifies the ear later, code to the more specific option.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for simple otitis media, ear effusion, or other middle ear disorders without adhesive disease. Check documentation if the finding is only suspected or if a different ear condition is named.
Coding tip
Verify laterality before assigning H74.19, and code the unspecified ear form only when the record truly lacks that detail.