ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesR94.120

R94.120

Abnormal auditory function study

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 R94.120 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of abnormal auditory function study.

Key Diagnostic Point:

R94.120 is used to classify abnormal findings from auditory function studies, which assess the ability of an individual to hear and process sound. These studies may include audiometry, tympanometry, and other specialized tests that evaluate hearing thresholds, middle ear function, and auditory nerve integrity. Abnormal results may indicate various conditions such as sensorineural hearing loss, conductive hearing loss, or central auditory processing disorders. Symptoms associated with abnormal auditory function can include difficulty hearing conversations, muffled sounds, or ringing in the ears (tinnitus). The clinical context for this code often arises in patients presenting with hearing complaints, requiring a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause of the auditory dysfunction. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate management and treatment planning, as well as for reimbursement purposes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in auditory function tests and their interpretations
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of symptoms and test results
  • Differentiation between types of hearing loss (conductive vs. sensorineural)
  • Potential overlap with other codes related to hearing issues

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the auditory function study results
  • Failure to link the abnormal findings to specific symptoms
  • Misclassification of the type of hearing loss
  • Inconsistent coding practices across different providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Internal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, results of auditory function tests, and correlation with clinical symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with gradual hearing loss or sudden onset of auditory symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of comorbid conditions that may affect hearing, such as diabetes or hypertension.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Acute care notes, including immediate auditory assessments and any interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with sudden hearing loss following trauma or infection.

Billing Considerations

Rapid assessment and documentation of auditory function in acute settings to guide treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use R94.120 When
  • Coders should refer to the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding and reporting, ensuring that the code is used only when there is clear documentation of abnormal findings from auditory function studies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use R94.120 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

92557CPT Code

Comprehensive audiometry threshold evaluation and speech recognition

Clinical Scenario

When an audiometric evaluation is performed to assess hearing loss.

Documentation Requirements

Results of the audiometric tests and any relevant patient history.

Specialty Considerations

Audiologists and ENT specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation to support the procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of auditory function abnormalities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. R94.120 provides a clear classification for abnormal findings, facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of auditory function abnormalities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. R94.120 provides a clear classification for abnormal findings, facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of auditory function abnormalities, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. R94.120 provides a clear classification for abnormal findings, facilitating better patient management.

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 types of tests are included under abnormal auditory function studies?

Abnormal auditory function studies may include audiometry, tympanometry, and other specialized tests that assess hearing thresholds and middle ear function.