Sudden idiopathic hearing loss, bilateral

This code signifies the sudden onset of hearing loss in both ears, where no underlying cause can be identified after thorough investigation. It represents a rapid decrease in auditory function affecting both sides, without a clear etiology such as trauma, infection, or ototoxic medication.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states "sudden idiopathic hearing loss, bilateral." This diagnosis is typically made after ruling out other potential causes of sudden hearing loss through a comprehensive workup, including audiometry, imaging, and laboratory tests.

• Ensure documentation specifies "idiopathic" and "bilateral" to support this code.
• Do not use this code if a specific cause for the sudden hearing loss (e.g., viral infection, Meniere's disease) is identified; instead, code the specific etiology.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter and no other definitive diagnosis is established.