Acute contact otitis externa, right ear

This code signifies an acute inflammation of the external ear canal, specifically the right ear, caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergen. This condition often presents with sudden onset of pain, itching, redness, and swelling of the outer ear and ear canal.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates an acute otitis externa in the right ear resulting from contact with a specific substance (e.g., chemicals, jewelry, cosmetics). Supporting documentation should include the laterality (right ear), the acute nature of the inflammation, and ideally, the identified contact agent.

• Ensure documentation specifies "acute" and "contact" to differentiate from other forms of otitis externa.
• Verify laterality; this code is specific to the right ear.
• Do not use for chronic contact otitis externa or other types of otitis externa (e.g., infectious, eczematous) without a documented contact cause.