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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH66.001

H66.001

Billable

Acute suppurative otitis media without spontaneous rupture of ear drum, right ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H66.001 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute suppurative otitis media without spontaneous rupture of ear drum, right ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute suppurative otitis media (ASOM) is an infection of the middle ear characterized by the presence of pus in the middle ear space, leading to inflammation and pain. This condition typically arises from a preceding upper respiratory tract infection, which causes Eustachian tube dysfunction, allowing pathogens to invade the middle ear. Clinically, patients present with ear pain, fever, irritability in children, and sometimes hearing loss. In cases where there is no spontaneous rupture of the tympanic membrane, the infection can lead to increased pressure and potential complications if left untreated. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by otoscopic examination revealing a bulging, erythematous tympanic membrane. Management includes analgesics for pain relief, antibiotics for bacterial infections, and close monitoring. Surgical intervention, such as tympanostomy, may be necessary if the condition persists or complications arise. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acute and chronic otitis media
  • Identifying the presence or absence of tympanic membrane rupture
  • Understanding the specific ear involved (right ear in this case)
  • Navigating the nuances of coding for complications or related conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the ear involved
  • Misclassification of acute versus chronic otitis media
  • Inconsistent use of antibiotics without clear justification

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including otoscopic findings, treatment plans, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with ear pain, fever, and irritability, especially in pediatric populations.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the absence of tympanic membrane rupture and any treatment provided.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Thorough history and physical examination notes, including developmental milestones and family history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Young children with recurrent ear infections and associated symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Documenting parental concerns and the impact of symptoms on the child's behavior and activities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H66.001 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the clinical presentation, treatment, and follow
  • up care
  • Include specific details about the ear affected and the absence of rupture

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H66.001 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 otitis media treatment when cerumen impaction is suspected.

Documentation Requirements

Document the presence of cerumen and the procedure performed.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists may frequently perform this procedure alongside otitis media management.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H66.001 provides clarity in coding acute cases without rupture, enhancing patient care and billing accuracy.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of ear conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. H66.001 provides clarity in coding acute cases without rupture, enhancing patient care and billing accuracy.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

billing accuracy.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of acute suppurative otitis media?

Common symptoms include ear pain, fever, irritability in children, and sometimes hearing loss. Otoscopic examination typically reveals a bulging, red tympanic membrane.

How is acute suppurative otitis media treated?

Treatment usually involves analgesics for pain relief and antibiotics for bacterial infections. Surgical intervention may be necessary for recurrent cases.