Suppurative otitis media, unspecified
ICD-10 H66.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of suppurative otitis media, unspecified.
Suppurative otitis media is an infection of the middle ear characterized by the presence of pus in the middle ear space. This condition can occur in both acute and chronic forms, often resulting from bacterial or viral infections that follow upper respiratory tract infections. Patients typically present with ear pain, fever, irritability in children, and sometimes hearing loss. The presence of purulent drainage may be noted if the tympanic membrane ruptures. 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 in some cases, surgical intervention such as tympanostomy tubes for recurrent cases. The unspecified nature of this code indicates that the specific type or cause of the suppurative otitis media is not documented, which can complicate treatment and management strategies.
Detailed clinical notes including history, physical examination findings, and treatment plans.
Management of acute ear infections, chronic otitis media, and surgical interventions like tympanostomy.
Ensure clear documentation of the type of otitis media and any associated complications.
Thorough documentation of symptoms, family history, and any previous episodes of otitis media.
Evaluation and management of recurrent ear infections in children.
Consideration of age-related factors and developmental milestones in documentation.
Used for patients with recurrent suppurative otitis media requiring surgical intervention.
Document the frequency of infections and previous treatments.
Otolaryngologists should ensure clear documentation of the need for surgery.
H66.4 is used for unspecified suppurative otitis media, while H66.0 is for acute cases specifically. Accurate documentation is crucial to determine the correct code.
