Otalgia and effusion of ear
Chapter 8:Diseases of the ear and mastoid process
ICD-10 H92 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of otalgia and effusion of ear.
Otalgia, commonly referred to as ear pain, can arise from various conditions affecting the ear, including infections, trauma, or referred pain from other structures. Effusion of the ear, often associated with otitis media, involves the accumulation of fluid in the middle ear space, which can lead to hearing loss and discomfort. Patients may present with symptoms such as earache, a feeling of fullness in the ear, hearing impairment, and sometimes fever. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, including otoscopy to visualize the tympanic membrane and assess for signs of infection or fluid. Audiometric testing may be necessary to evaluate the extent of hearing loss. Management strategies may include analgesics for pain relief, antibiotics for bacterial infections, and in some cases, surgical interventions such as tympanostomy tubes to drain fluid and prevent recurrent infections. Accurate coding for H92 requires careful documentation of the clinical presentation, underlying causes, and any associated procedures performed.
Detailed history of present illness, physical examination findings, and treatment plan.
Patients presenting with recurrent ear infections, chronic otitis media, or post-operative follow-ups.
Ensure documentation reflects the type of effusion and any surgical interventions performed.
Growth and development assessments, vaccination history, and family history of ear conditions.
Children with frequent ear infections or those requiring tympanostomy tubes.
Consider age-related factors in diagnosis and management, as well as parental concerns.
Performed for recurrent otitis media with effusion.
Document the indication for surgery, pre-operative assessment, and post-operative care.
Otolaryngologists should ensure all procedural details are captured.
H92 refers to otalgia and effusion of the ear, while H65 specifically codes for otitis media, which may or may not involve pain. H92 is broader and includes various causes of ear pain and fluid accumulation.
