Unspecified chronic otitis externa, unspecified ear

This code signifies a persistent, long-term inflammation of the external ear canal, where the specific cause or laterality (left or right ear) has not been documented. It describes a general, ongoing infection or irritation of the outer ear that is not acute.

Use this code when the medical record clearly indicates a diagnosis of chronic otitis externa but lacks specific details regarding the causative agent (e.g., bacterial, fungal) or whether it affects the left, right, or both ears. This code is appropriate when the provider's documentation states "chronic otitis externa" without further elaboration.

• Avoid using this code if the documentation specifies the laterality (e.g., "chronic otitis externa, left ear") or the specific type (e.g., "chronic fungal otitis externa").
• Always query the provider for more specific documentation regarding laterality and etiology to allow for a more precise code assignment.
• Do not confuse with acute otitis externa (H60.3-) or other specific types of otitis externa (H60.4-, H60.5-).