Chondritis of external ear, bilateral

This code signifies inflammation of the cartilage of both external ears. This condition often presents with pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness of the auricle, potentially affecting the ear's shape and structure. It can be infectious or non-infectious in origin.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states chondritis affecting both external ears. This diagnosis is typically made based on clinical examination findings of bilateral auricular inflammation. Supporting documentation should detail the location and nature of the inflammation.

• Ensure documentation specifies bilateral involvement; otherwise, use unilateral codes (H61.031, H61.032) or unspecified (H61.039).
• Distinguish from otitis externa (H60.-), which primarily involves the skin of the external ear canal, not the cartilage.
• Code any underlying cause or associated systemic condition (e.g., relapsing polychondritis, infection) as an additional diagnosis.