H61.90

What This Code Means

This code describes a problem or disease affecting the outer ear (the part you can see and touch) when the specific type of disorder is not documented and it's unclear which ear is affected. It's used when a provider notes an ear problem but doesn't provide enough detail to assign a more specific diagnosis.

Coding Tips

• •This is a non-specific code and should only be used when the documentation does not specify the type of external ear disorder (such as otitis externa, cerumen impaction, or dermatitis) or which ear is involved; query the provider for more specific information when possible
• •If the affected ear is documented (right, left, or bilateral), use the appropriate fifth character (H61.91, H61.92, or H61.93) rather than the unspecified option