Swimmer's ear, bilateral

This code represents an infection of the external auditory canal affecting both ears, commonly known as otitis externa. It is typically characterized by inflammation, pain, itching, and discharge in the ear canal, often exacerbated by water exposure.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of "swimmer's ear" or "otitis externa" and specifies involvement of both ears. This diagnosis is frequently seen in patients presenting with ear pain and discharge after swimming or other water activities.

• Ensure the medical record clearly indicates bilateral involvement; otherwise, use a unilateral code.
• Distinguish from otitis media (middle ear infection), which involves a different anatomical location and different ICD-10-CM codes.
• Look for documentation of the causative organism if known, as a more specific code might be available (e.g., bacterial, fungal).