Chronic mastoiditis
ICD-10 H70.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic mastoiditis.
Chronic mastoiditis is a persistent inflammatory condition of the mastoid air cells, typically resulting from unresolved or recurrent otitis media. It is characterized by the presence of fluid, infection, and inflammation in the mastoid process, which can lead to complications such as hearing loss, facial nerve paralysis, and intracranial infections if left untreated. Patients often present with symptoms such as ear pain, discharge from the ear, and hearing impairment. Chronic mastoiditis may develop following acute mastoiditis or as a result of chronic otitis media, where the infection spreads from the middle ear to the mastoid air cells. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as CT scans, and audiometric testing to assess hearing loss. Management may involve medical treatment with antibiotics and, in some cases, surgical intervention such as mastoidectomy to remove infected tissue and restore normal ear function.
Detailed history of ear infections, audiometric evaluations, and imaging results.
Patients presenting with recurrent ear infections, persistent ear discharge, or hearing loss.
Ensure clear documentation of the duration of symptoms and any prior treatments.
Comprehensive patient history, including previous episodes of otitis media and treatment responses.
Patients with a history of ear infections presenting with new or worsening symptoms.
Document referral to specialists when necessary and any follow-up care provided.
Performed for chronic mastoiditis with complications.
Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.
Otolaryngology specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation of pre-operative evaluations.
Common symptoms include persistent ear pain, discharge from the ear, hearing loss, and sometimes fever or facial weakness.
Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation, patient history, imaging studies such as CT scans, and audiometric testing.
Treatment options include antibiotics, surgical intervention such as mastoidectomy, and management of associated conditions like otitis media.
