Acute suppurative otitis media without spontaneous rupture of ear drum, recurrent, bilateral
ICD-10 H66.006 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute suppurative otitis media without spontaneous rupture of ear drum, recurrent, bilateral.
Acute suppurative otitis media (ASOM) is an infection of the middle ear characterized by the presence of pus in the middle ear space, leading to inflammation and pain. In cases classified under H66.006, the condition is recurrent and bilateral, meaning it affects both ears and has occurred multiple times. Patients typically present with ear pain, fever, irritability in children, and possible hearing loss. The absence of spontaneous rupture of the eardrum indicates that the tympanic membrane remains intact, which can complicate the clinical picture as the pressure from the pus can lead to significant discomfort. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by otoscopic examination revealing a bulging, erythematous tympanic membrane. Management often includes antibiotics, analgesics, and in some cases, tympanostomy tubes for recurrent cases to facilitate drainage and prevent further infections. Accurate coding requires careful documentation of the recurrent nature and bilateral involvement of the condition.
Detailed history of recurrent infections, clinical findings from otoscopic exams, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with recurrent ear infections, especially in pediatric populations.
Documentation must clearly indicate the bilateral nature and recurrent episodes to support the use of H66.006.
History of ear infections, family history, and any previous treatments or surgeries.
Children with recurrent ear infections leading to hearing loss or speech delays.
Pediatricians should document developmental milestones and any impact on hearing to justify the diagnosis.
Used in recurrent cases of ASOM to prevent further infections.
Surgical notes detailing the procedure and indication for tympanostomy.
Otolaryngologists must document the recurrent nature of infections to justify the procedure.
Common symptoms include ear pain, fever, irritability in children, and possible hearing loss. Otoscopic examination may reveal a bulging and red tympanic membrane.
