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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH81.22

H81.22

Billable

Vestibular neuronitis, left ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H81.22 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of vestibular neuronitis, left ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Vestibular neuronitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the vestibular nerve, which is responsible for balance. This condition typically presents with sudden onset vertigo, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and imbalance. Patients may experience a sensation of spinning (vertigo) that can last for days, with symptoms exacerbated by head movements. The left ear is specifically affected in this code, indicating unilateral involvement. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by a thorough history and physical examination, often ruling out other causes of vertigo such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or labyrinthitis. Diagnostic tests may include audiometry and vestibular function tests. Management focuses on symptomatic relief, often utilizing vestibular suppressants and antiemetics. In some cases, vestibular rehabilitation therapy may be recommended to aid recovery. The prognosis is generally favorable, with most patients experiencing significant improvement within weeks.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating from other vestibular disorders
  • Need for precise documentation of unilateral symptoms
  • Potential overlap with other ear conditions
  • Variability in clinical presentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms
  • Failure to specify laterality
  • Misdiagnosis with other vestibular disorders
  • Lack of supporting diagnostic tests

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of symptoms, physical examination findings, and results of vestibular testing.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute vertigo, nausea, and imbalance.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of unilateral symptoms and any differential diagnoses considered.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Neurological examination findings, imaging results if applicable, and differential diagnosis documentation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with vertigo and neurological symptoms requiring differentiation from central causes.

Billing Considerations

Document any neurological deficits and consider additional testing to rule out central causes of vertigo.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H81.22 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding vestibular disorders
  • Ensure accurate documentation of symptoms and laterality

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H81.22 When
  • Exclude conditions that may mimic vestibular neuronitis

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

92540CPT Code

Vestibular function tests

Clinical Scenario

Used to assess vestibular function in patients with vertigo.

Documentation Requirements

Document the type of tests performed and results.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists often perform these tests to confirm diagnosis.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of vestibular disorders, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of vestibular disorders, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of vestibular disorders, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management.

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 vestibular neuronitis?

Common symptoms include sudden onset of vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and imbalance, typically without hearing loss.