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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH92.01

H92.01

Billable

Otalgia, right ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H92.01 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of otalgia, right ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Otalgia, or ear pain, is a common symptom that can arise from various underlying conditions affecting the ear and surrounding structures. In the case of H92.01, the pain is specifically localized to the right ear. The etiology of otalgia can range from acute infections such as otitis media or otitis externa to referred pain from dental issues or temporomandibular joint disorders. Patients may present with symptoms such as sharp or dull pain, a sensation of fullness, hearing loss, or even fever if an infection is present. Diagnostic criteria typically involve a thorough history and physical examination, often supplemented by otoscopic examination to assess for signs of infection or other abnormalities. Management may include analgesics for pain relief, antibiotics for bacterial infections, or referral to an otolaryngologist for more complex cases. Understanding the underlying cause of otalgia is crucial for effective treatment and to prevent complications such as hearing loss or chronic ear disease.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of otalgia (primary vs. secondary)
  • Identifying the underlying cause (infection, referred pain, etc.)
  • Potential for co-existing conditions (e.g., hearing loss, vestibular disorders)
  • Variability in presentation and severity of symptoms

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the underlying cause of otalgia
  • Failure to specify the laterality of the condition
  • Misuse of codes for related conditions (e.g., otitis media)
  • Lack of supporting documentation for treatments provided

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of symptoms, physical examination findings, and any diagnostic tests performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute ear pain, chronic ear infections, or post-operative pain following ear surgery.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the specific diagnosis and any relevant surgical interventions.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive patient history, including duration and nature of pain, associated symptoms, and any prior treatments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with ear pain due to upper respiratory infections or allergies.

Billing Considerations

Document any referrals made to specialists for further evaluation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H92.01 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, H92
  • 01 should be used when the primary complaint is ear pain localized to the right ear
  • It is important to document the specific nature of the pain and any associated symptoms to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H92.01 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69210CPT Code

Removal of impacted cerumen

Clinical Scenario

When cerumen impaction is identified as a cause of otalgia.

Documentation Requirements

Document the presence of cerumen impaction and the procedure performed.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists may perform this procedure in conjunction with other evaluations.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like otalgia, improving the ability to track and manage ear-related disorders. H92.01 provides a clear indication of the affected ear, which aids in treatment planning and outcome measurement.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like otalgia, improving the ability to track and manage ear-related disorders. H92.01 provides a clear indication of the affected ear, which aids in treatment planning and outcome measurement.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like otalgia, improving the ability to track and manage ear-related disorders. H92.01 provides a clear indication of the affected ear, which aids in treatment planning and outcome measurement.

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 is the primary cause of otalgia?

Otalgia can be caused by various factors, including infections (otitis media, otitis externa), trauma, referred pain from dental issues, or TMJ disorders. A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the specific cause.

How do I document otalgia for billing purposes?

Document the patient's symptoms, duration, and any associated findings from the physical examination. Clearly indicate the laterality of the pain and any treatments provided to support the diagnosis.