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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH91.10

H91.10

Billable

Presbycusis, unspecified ear

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H91.10 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of presbycusis, unspecified ear.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Presbycusis refers to age-related hearing loss that occurs gradually as individuals age. It is characterized by a progressive decline in the ability to hear high-frequency sounds, which can lead to difficulties in understanding speech, especially in noisy environments. The condition is bilateral in most cases, although it may present as unilateral in some individuals. The underlying pathophysiology involves degeneration of the hair cells in the cochlea, changes in the auditory nerve, and alterations in the central auditory pathways. Patients may also experience tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing in the ears, which can accompany the hearing loss. Diagnosis typically involves audiometric testing to assess the degree of hearing loss and to rule out other causes of auditory impairment. Management strategies include the use of hearing aids, auditory rehabilitation, and counseling to help patients cope with the social and psychological impacts of hearing loss. Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential to adapt treatment plans as the condition progresses.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and severity of hearing loss
  • Need for comprehensive audiometric testing
  • Differentiation from other types of hearing loss
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting hearing

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of audiometric results
  • Failure to specify the degree of hearing loss
  • Misclassification of presbycusis as other types of hearing loss
  • Lack of follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed audiometric evaluations and patient history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with gradual hearing loss and difficulty understanding speech.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the age-related nature of the hearing loss and any interventions provided.

Audiology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive audiological assessments and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing hearing assessments for age-related hearing loss.

Billing Considerations

Document the specific audiometric findings and recommendations for hearing aids or rehabilitation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H91.10 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding hearing loss
  • Presbycusis should be coded when age
  • related hearing loss is documented, and other causes of hearing loss have been ruled out

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H91.10 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

92557CPT Code

Comprehensive audiometry threshold evaluation and speech recognition

Clinical Scenario

Used during the evaluation of a patient with suspected presbycusis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the results of the audiometric tests and any recommendations made.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists and audiologists should ensure that the evaluation is thorough and reflects the patient's hearing status.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hearing loss, including presbycusis, which helps in better tracking and management of age-related hearing conditions.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hearing loss, including presbycusis, which helps in better tracking and management of age-related hearing conditions.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hearing loss, including presbycusis, which helps in better tracking and management of age-related hearing conditions.

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 is presbycusis?

Presbycusis is age-related hearing loss that typically affects high-frequency sounds and can impact communication abilities.

How is presbycusis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made through audiometric testing that assesses the degree and type of hearing loss, often in conjunction with a thorough patient history.

What are the treatment options for presbycusis?

Treatment options include hearing aids, auditory rehabilitation, and counseling to help patients manage the effects of hearing loss.