Acute contact otitis externa, bilateral

This code signifies an acute inflammatory reaction of the external ear canal, affecting both ears, caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergen. Symptoms typically include bilateral ear pain, itching, redness, and swelling, developing rapidly after exposure.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates an acute, bilateral inflammation of the external auditory canal resulting from contact with a specific substance (e.g., jewelry, chemicals, cosmetics). The medical record should specify the acute nature and bilateral involvement.

• Ensure documentation specifies "acute" and "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, consider codes for chronic or unilateral contact otitis externa.
• Do not confuse with infectious otitis externa (e.g., bacterial, fungal), which has different etiologies and corresponding codes.
• If the specific contact allergen/irritant is identified, consider adding an external cause code (V00-Y99) to provide further specificity.