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 CodesH61.892

H61.892

Billable

Other specified disorders of left external ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H61.892 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified disorders of left external ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

H61.892 refers to various specified disorders affecting the left external ear that do not fall under more common classifications. These disorders can include conditions such as external ear infections, dermatitis, or other inflammatory processes that may not be specifically categorized. Clinical presentations may vary widely, including symptoms such as pain, itching, swelling, or discharge from the ear canal. Diagnostic criteria typically involve a thorough clinical examination, patient history, and possibly imaging studies or cultures to identify the underlying cause. Management may include topical or systemic medications, surgical interventions for severe cases, or referrals to specialists such as otolaryngologists. Accurate coding is essential for proper treatment reimbursement and tracking of healthcare outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying conditions
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms
  • Differentiation from other ear disorders
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms
  • Failure to specify the exact nature of the disorder
  • Incorrect linkage of diagnosis to treatment
  • Omission of relevant patient history

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including patient history, examination findings, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with ear pain, discharge, or external ear lesions.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clarity in documenting the specific disorder affecting the left external ear.

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive skin assessments and descriptions of any dermatological conditions affecting the ear.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with dermatitis or infections localized to the external ear.

Billing Considerations

Document any skin conditions that may contribute to ear disorders.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H61.892 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • Include any relevant symptoms and the specific nature of the disorder affecting the left external ear

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H61.892 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69210CPT Code

Removal of impacted cerumen

Clinical Scenario

Often performed in conjunction with diagnosis of external ear disorders.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for cerumen removal and any associated symptoms.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists frequently perform this procedure.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear disorders, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H61.892 provides a means to capture less common conditions that may have been previously underreported.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear disorders, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H61.892 provides a means to capture less common conditions that may have been previously underreported.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear disorders, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H61.892 provides a means to capture less common conditions that may have been previously underreported.

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 conditions are coded under H61.892?

H61.892 is used for various specified disorders of the left external ear, including infections, dermatitis, and other inflammatory conditions that do not have a more specific code.