Acute actinic otitis externa, left ear

This diagnosis code signifies an acute inflammatory condition of the external auditory canal, specifically the left ear, caused by exposure to sunlight or other ultraviolet radiation. It presents as a sudden onset of redness, swelling, and pain in the outer ear due to actinic damage.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates an acute otitis externa of the left ear directly attributed to sun exposure. Supporting documentation should specify the laterality and the actinic etiology, often following prolonged outdoor activity without ear protection.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "acute" and "actinic" as the cause, not bacterial or fungal.
• Verify laterality; this code is specific to the left ear.
• Differentiate from other forms of otitis externa (e.g., H60.312 for noninfectious, H60.392 for other specified).