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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH70.01

H70.01

Billable

Subperiosteal abscess of mastoid

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H70.01 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of subperiosteal abscess of mastoid.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A subperiosteal abscess of the mastoid is a localized collection of pus that forms beneath the periosteum of the mastoid process, typically as a complication of acute or chronic otitis media. This condition arises when infection spreads from the middle ear to the mastoid air cells, leading to inflammation and subsequent abscess formation. Patients often present with symptoms such as ear pain, fever, swelling behind the ear, and possible hearing loss. Physical examination may reveal tenderness over the mastoid area and erythema. Diagnostic imaging, particularly CT scans, is crucial for confirming the diagnosis and assessing the extent of the abscess. Management typically involves antibiotic therapy and may require surgical intervention, such as mastoidectomy or drainage of the abscess, to prevent further complications like meningitis or intracranial infections. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to mitigate risks associated with this condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acute and chronic conditions
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and imaging results
  • Potential for multiple related diagnoses
  • Variability in treatment approaches and surgical interventions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to document imaging studies
  • Misclassification of the type of abscess
  • Inconsistent coding of related conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on patient history, physical examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with ear pain, fever, and swelling behind the ear, often following a recent upper respiratory infection.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all surgical interventions are documented, including the type of procedure performed and the rationale for surgery.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Thorough documentation of symptoms, family history of ear infections, and any previous treatments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children with recurrent ear infections leading to complications such as mastoiditis.

Billing Considerations

Consider age-related factors in treatment and coding, as pediatric patients may present differently.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H70.01 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the abscess's location and any associated conditions
  • Include relevant history of otitis media and any surgical interventions performed

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H70.01 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

69420CPT Code

Mastoidectomy

Clinical Scenario

Performed when a subperiosteal abscess is present and drainage is necessary.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for surgery, findings during the procedure, and post-operative care.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists must ensure that all surgical details are accurately captured for coding.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like subperiosteal abscess of the mastoid, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like subperiosteal abscess of the mastoid, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like subperiosteal abscess of the mastoid, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better treatment planning.

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 a subperiosteal abscess of the mastoid?

Common symptoms include ear pain, fever, swelling behind the ear, and possible hearing loss. Patients may also exhibit signs of systemic infection.