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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH65.1

H65.1

Billable

Other acute nonsuppurative otitis media

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/12/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 H65.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other acute nonsuppurative otitis media.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Other acute nonsuppurative otitis media (H65.1) refers to a type of middle ear inflammation that is characterized by the absence of pus and is not caused by a bacterial infection. This condition can arise from various factors, including viral infections, allergies, or eustachian tube dysfunction. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as ear pain, hearing loss, and a sensation of fullness in the ear. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough history and physical examination, often supplemented by otoscopic examination to assess the tympanic membrane's appearance. Management may include symptomatic relief with analgesics, decongestants, or antihistamines, and in some cases, observation may be warranted. Unlike suppurative otitis media, which may require antibiotics, nonsuppurative cases often resolve spontaneously. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment and reimbursement, as well as for tracking epidemiological trends in ear diseases.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acute and chronic otitis media
  • Identifying nonsuppurative versus suppurative conditions
  • Variability in clinical presentation among patients
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and treatment

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Misdiagnosis of acute versus chronic otitis media
  • Failure to document the absence of purulent discharge
  • Inconsistent coding practices among providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of symptoms, physical examination findings, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with ear pain, hearing loss, or fullness without signs of infection.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation specifies the type of otitis media and any relevant history of allergies or upper respiratory infections.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Complete developmental history, vaccination status, and family history of ear infections.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children with recurrent ear infections or presenting with acute ear pain.

Billing Considerations

Consider age-related factors in diagnosis and management, as children are more prone to otitis media.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H65.1 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, H65
  • 1 should be used when the clinical documentation supports a diagnosis of acute nonsuppurative otitis media
  • It is important to ensure that the condition is not due to a bacterial infection, which would require a different code

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H65.1 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69210CPT Code

Removal of impacted cerumen

Clinical Scenario

When cerumen impaction is suspected as a contributing factor to ear pain.

Documentation Requirements

Document the presence of cerumen and the procedure performed.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists should ensure clear documentation of the procedure and its necessity.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H65.1 provides a distinct code for nonsuppurative cases, which helps in understanding the epidemiology of ear diseases.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H65.1 provides a distinct code for nonsuppurative cases, which helps in understanding the epidemiology of ear diseases.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H65.1 provides a distinct code for nonsuppurative cases, which helps in understanding the epidemiology of ear diseases.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of H65.1?

Common symptoms include ear pain, hearing loss, and a sensation of fullness in the ear, often following a viral upper respiratory infection.

How is H65.1 diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made through clinical evaluation, including a detailed history and physical examination, particularly otoscopic examination to assess the tympanic membrane.

What is the treatment for H65.1?

Treatment typically focuses on symptom relief with analgesics and decongestants, as the condition often resolves spontaneously without antibiotics.