Otorrhea, right ear
ICD-10 H92.11 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of otorrhea, right ear.
Otorrhea, or ear discharge, is a clinical condition characterized by the presence of fluid or pus draining from the ear canal. This condition can arise from various underlying pathologies, most commonly otitis media or otitis externa. In the case of H92.11, the discharge is specifically noted to be from the right ear. Clinical presentation may include symptoms such as ear pain, itching, hearing loss, and a sensation of fullness in the ear. The discharge may be serous, purulent, or bloody, depending on the underlying cause. Diagnostic criteria typically involve a thorough history and physical examination, often supplemented by otoscopic examination to visualize the tympanic membrane and ear canal. Management may include antibiotic therapy, ear cleaning, and in some cases, surgical intervention such as tympanostomy or mastoidectomy if complications arise. Accurate coding for otorrhea is essential for proper reimbursement and tracking of ear-related diseases, as it can indicate the severity of the underlying condition and guide treatment decisions.
Detailed history of present illness, physical examination findings, and treatment plan.
Patients presenting with ear pain and discharge, chronic otorrhea, or post-operative follow-up after ear surgery.
Ensure documentation specifies the type of otorrhea and any associated conditions to support the diagnosis.
Complete developmental history, vaccination status, and family history of ear infections.
Children with recurrent ear infections leading to otorrhea, often requiring referral to an ENT specialist.
Consideration of age-related factors and potential for complications in young children.
When a patient presents with otorrhea and cerumen impaction.
Document the presence of cerumen and the procedure performed.
Otolaryngologists may perform this procedure in conjunction with other treatments for otorrhea.
H92.11 refers to otorrhea from the right ear, while H92.12 refers to otorrhea from the left ear. Accurate coding requires specifying the affected ear.
