Presbycusis, left ear

This code signifies age-related hearing loss affecting the left ear. It is a progressive, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss that typically begins in the high frequencies and gradually extends to lower frequencies, making speech comprehension difficult.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states presbycusis affecting the left ear. This diagnosis is typically made based on audiometric testing showing characteristic age-related hearing loss patterns and a clinical assessment ruling out other causes of hearing impairment.

• Ensure laterality is clearly documented as "left ear" to support this specific code.
• Do not use this code if the presbycusis is bilateral or affects only the right ear; separate codes exist for those scenarios.
• Consider co-occurring conditions like tinnitus (H93.1-) if documented, but sequence presbycusis as the primary diagnosis if it's the reason for the encounter.