Other infective otitis externa, bilateral

This code signifies an infection of the external ear canal, not specified as fungal, bacterial, or viral, affecting both ears. It indicates an inflammatory process of the outer ear caused by an infectious agent.

Apply this code when documentation specifies an infective otitis externa in both ears, but the specific pathogen (e.g., bacterial, fungal, viral) is not identified. It is appropriate for cases where the provider diagnoses "infective otitis externa, bilateral" without further microbiological detail.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, use a unilateral code.
• If the specific infectious agent is known (e.g., bacterial, fungal), use a more specific code from the H60.0-H60.2 series.
• Always review for associated symptoms or complications that may require additional coding.